Emergent BioSolutions Launches Singapore Operations

Emergent BioSolutions, Inc., a U.S.-based developer and manufacturer of vaccines and antibody therapies, has launched Singapore operations through EPIC Bio Ltd., a recently formed Singapore-based joint venture with Temasek Life Sciences Ventures Ltd. (TLV), to develop, manufacture, and commercialize pandemic influenza vaccines and therapeutics.

Emergent’s Singapore office will provide support to EPIC Bio as the joint venture expands its operations. EPIC Bio plans to begin clinical manufacturing of a broad-spectrum influenza vaccine candidate in 2011 and to initiate a clinical trial in 2012.

“Emergent is pleased to enhance its presence in Asia-Pacific with initiatives that help carry out our corporate mission, to protect life,” said Fuad El-Hibri, chairman and chief executive officer of Emergent BioSolutions. “First, by broadening the scope of Emergent’s Singapore operations, not only will it continue to make our present and future biodefense products available, but it will also provide support to the company’s ongoing tuberculosis program as well as explore manufacturing and business development opportunities in the region. Second, by forming EPIC Bio with TLV, Emergent leverages important technology and product development know how to complement TLL’s research and development efforts in pandemic influenza.”