Big pharma is making a big move in North Carolina's Research Triangle. Novartis, the global medicines company, is set to invest $771 million and generate 700 new jobs across Durham and Wake Counties by the end of 2030. The announcement, made by Governor Josh Stein, underscores North Carolina's continued leadership in advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing.
With 350 employees currently, Novartis is expanding its gene therapy development and production in Durham County, which will now manufacture treatments across the company's various therapeutic areas. According to a statement obtained by Durham County News, the initial investment of $540 million in Durham is aimed to create 280 new jobs. A subsequent investment will bring even more positions by 2030, culminating in a boost for local employment – and not all positions will require a four-year degree.
Durham County's choice for expansion was lauded by local officials, with the Board of Commissioners Chair Nida Allam expressing her delight at the growth of Novartis in the area. Not only will this move increase the production of life-saving medications, but it will also "create new jobs that do not require a 4-year or advanced degree," Allam told Durham County News. This expansion is poised to enhance the workforce development partnerships, allowing for better access to well-paying, entry-level manufacturing jobs.
Over in Wake County, Novartis is investing over $231 million in Morrisville, with the promise of creating over 100 high-paying jobs initially. The site will focus on small-batch production of solid dosage tablets and capsules, including packaging, "The word is out, The Research Triangle is the epicenter of biotech manufacturing," said Wake County Board of Commissioners Chair Susan Evans in a statement to Durham County News. Morrisville's burgeoning life sciences sector and pool of qualified professionals make it a prime location for such investment.
The Research Triangle is already home to over 650 life sciences operations, with an employment impact of over 49,000 jobs. This new collaboration involves several key partners, including The North Carolina Department of Commerce, The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, The North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Biotechnology Center, and community colleges. TJ Cawley, Mayor of Morrisville, emphasized the significance of Novartis's expansion, stating, "Their continued growth strengthens our region's life sciences ecosystem," in an interview with Durham County News.
