Zymeworks, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development and commercialization of next-generation multifunctional biotherapeutics, initially focused on the treatment of cancer, has opened a state-of-the-art, 10,000 square foot laboratory facility in Vancouver, Canada.

The new lab will provide Zymeworks with increased control over discovery research, antibody generation, medicinal chemistry and bioconjugation for generating antibody drug conjugates, and the development of multi-functional proteins. Having Zymeworks’ discovery components together in one centralized location will enhance Zymeworks’ ability to expedite certain processes on an as-needed basis.

“Zymeworks’ new lab is an investment in our future. It will enable us to perform our own internal research and development in a fully integrated manner,” said Dr. Ali Tehrani, president and CEO of Zymeworks. “As the Zymeworks family continues to grow, so do our requirements, and the capabilities our new lab provides demonstrate our commitment to efficiently advance and expand our therapeutic pipeline.”

John Babcook, senior vice president, Discovery Research at Zymeworks added, “The cutting-edge technology in the new lab facility creates in-house synergies in the process of identifying lead therapeutic candidates that can be advanced to the clinic. We continue to work to be a leader in the biotherapeutics space with the goal of making a meaningful impact in the lives of patients.”