Victoria houses new R&D lab to advance biotech manufacturing capabilities

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Symbio Laboratories is opening a new research and development centre in Melbourne that will advance Victoria’s capabilities in biotechnology and molecular biology, cementing the state’s status as Australia’s life sciences hub. 

The new facility, located in Ravenhall, is expected to generate a $14.9 million investment in Victoria and create 200 new local jobs, including scientists, laboratory technicians, and IT specialists. 

The laboratory will offer analytical testing, R&D and diagnostic manufacturing for clients in various industries. It will also produce testing kits and molecular biology tests for early cancer diagnosis, and advanced medical tools. 

These capabilities are expected to enhance Victoria’s medical manufacturing capability, reducing reliance on imports and boosting the local supply of critical medical products. 

The new R&D centre is part of Symbio’s efforts to expand its services offering and ensure it can rapidly respond to emerging issues in the food, environmental, medical, and pharmaceutical sectors. 

In addition to the R&D laboratory, Symbio will also partner with local universities and TAFE institutions to provide 15 internship opportunities each year, to foster Victoria’s workforce development and talent pipeline. 

Victoria’s $21.4 billion health technology sector is a global leader in research, testing and manufacturing and employs over 30,000 people across the state.