Sartorius Unveils $100M Bioanalytics Excellence Center in Michigan's Ann Arbor

Sartorius, a life science research and biopharmaceutical company based in Germany, has recently completed a significant development in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The new $100 million, 130,000-square-foot facility is set to become a key hub for the company's operations in bioanalytics.

Project Development

Construction on the Center of Excellence for bioanalytics began two years ago at the Tech Loop in Research Park. The project was led by Hobbs+ Black Architects, with J.S. Vig Construction Co. serving as the general contractor.

Expansion and Workforce Growth

Currently employing around 140 people, Sartorius plans to more than double its workforce in the coming years. The new facility at 3874 Research Park Drive will bring together various sites and functions within Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County, providing room for future growth.

Strategic Location and Company Growth

Sartorius has been a part of the Ann Arbor community since acquiring Essen BioScience in 2017 and SoloHill in 2020. With 60 production and sales sites globally, and 2,600 employees across 12 North American locations, Sartorius chose Ann Arbor for its strategic proximity to customers and top universities, such as the University of Michigan, offering access to talent, technology, and logistical advantages.

Facility Functions and Capabilities

The new Center of Excellence will encompass multiple functions, including manufacturing and services, biology labs, warehouse, office, and training spaces, and a Customer Interaction Center. Sartorius will focus on developing and manufacturing bioanalytical instruments aimed at advancing drug development. The facility will also provide particle validation services and produce microcarriers for cell culture processes.

Sustainability and Certification Goals

Sartorius is pursuing LEED gold certification for the new facility, incorporating sustainable features like a 200-kilowatt solar panel energy supply, 30 electric vehicle charging stations, and Research Park’s first storm runoff pond designed to mitigate flooding and erosion.