Investing in the future of diagnostics: Roche’s new innovation center redefines research and development

Internally named "LEAP" — which stands for Laboratory Excellence Accelerator Penzberg — the building itself is a symbol of this ambition: a true "leap" into a new era of diagnostics. This isn't just about constructing a new facility; it's about pushing the boundaries of diagnostics through innovation and the relentless pursuit of excellence. 

With a substantial investment of around 300 million euros, this project powerfully demonstrates Roche’s deep commitment to research and development and its mission to revolutionize the diagnostics landscape for patients worldwide.

Building for collaboration and innovation

At the heart of the Diagnostics Innovation Center is the belief that innovation thrives when people connect. The new center is designed as a motor for innovation, with the focus squarely on the people who will work there. 

The building's architecture is intentionally crafted to promote collaboration and creativity through tailor-made, agile working models, strengthening the direct exchange among researchers. It’s not just a workplace; it's a true place of encounter where new ideas are born, fostering innovation that benefits patients globally. 

The ability to leverage co-location with pharmaceutical research in Penzberg further maximizes this innovative power.

Setting new standards in laboratory work

The Diagnostics Innovation Center is poised to redefine laboratory work. It’s a high-tech center that sets new benchmarks for efficiency and precision through the holistic digitalization of R&D infrastructure and workflows. 

Key innovations include highly flexible laboratories and automated central sample storage and transport systems, along with the use of pipetting robots. This leap in technology is far from abstract, as it is designed to facilitate shorter development times for diagnostic tests, diagnostic ingredients, and reagents. This, in turn, supports faster market access for innovations that empower patients to live better lives.

A benchmark for sustainability

The new Diagnostics Innovation Center is a flagship project demonstrating how cutting-edge research and ecological responsibility go hand in hand at Roche. From planning and construction to operation, the building is consistently designed to minimize its ecological footprint. This commitment to resource-saving construction and energy efficiency demonstrates how Roche is consistently driving forward its sustainability goal of being climate-neutral by 2050.

The new building is one of the largest timber-hybrid structures in Bavaria, making it a pioneer in ecological research construction. Specifically, the office section was realized using an ecologically optimized timber-hybrid construction method. With this, Roche is setting a benchmark for future-proof research in Penzberg.

Putting the patient first

Ultimately, the new Diagnostics Innovation Center is a crucial step for Roche to continue meeting the evolving demands of doctors and patients. Diagnostics are the foundation for every treatment, encompassing everything from prevention and early detection to diagnosis and therapy monitoring. 

The Diagnostics Innovation Center will ensure the patient remains the absolute focus of all research and progress, driving innovations to support a better life for patients globally.