Gilead Sciences has opened a new 182,000ft² research centre at its Foster City headquarters in California, US, for advancing medicines to treat challenging diseases.

The new facility expands the company’s capabilities in inflammation, oncology and data science.

Gilead currently employs 11,000 people in the US, with more than 7,400 based in California and approximately 4,700 in the Bay Area.

The facility was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by company leaders, employees and guests, including US Representative Kevin Mullin of California’s 15th Congressional District and California State Assembly member Diane Papan.

Gilead Sciences chairman and CEO Daniel O’Day said: “We are in a moment of unprecedented opportunity in science and technology.

“Our new research centre will help Gilead scientists make the most of that opportunity, delivering more breakthrough medicines faster.

“As part of our broader $32bn investment in the US, this new facility also reflects our long-term commitment to American innovation.”

The centre is part of a broader strategy by Gilead to advance research, development, and manufacturing assets in the US through to 2030.

Two other Foster City projects are also underway: the Technical Development Center, anticipated to open in 2027; and a biologics facility scheduled for completion in 2029.

Gilead Sciences research executive vice-president Flavius Martin said: “The future of biomedical innovation depends on bringing together exceptional science, advanced technologies and diverse expertise.

“This centre was designed to do exactly that. By co-locating key research disciplines and expanding our data science capabilities, we are strengthening the infrastructure needed to accelerate discovery and advance meaningful innovations.”

The five-storey building will accommodate around 325 employees, including 260 laboratory scientists. It features adaptable laboratory spaces, collaborative work areas, and shared technology platforms.

Sustainability features include all-electric systems, energy-efficient design, and landscaping with native California plants, aimed at achieving LEED Gold certification.

The centre is linked to an adjacent building for efficient transfer of equipment and provides a new central gathering space for collaboration.

In May 2026, Gilead Sciences concluded its acquisition of Tubulis, a Germany-based biotechnology company developing next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), in a transaction valued at up to $5bn.