EMD Serono, Inc. will open a site in Cambridge, MA to support its growing research activities. The laboratory space will accommodate EMD Serono’s U.S. drug discovery activities in neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), intended to augment the company’s existing U.S. research in oncology and fertility. EMD Serono expects to occupy the site with nearly 50 scientists across disciplines, including neurobiology, pharmacology and chemistry, to work at the location.

“This research expansion further supports EMD Serono’s commitment to develop and deliver innovative therapies for patients in our areas of focus,” said Fereydoun Firouz, president and chief executive officer, EMD Serono. “EMD Serono is following our outlined strategy to broaden our research capabilities by expanding our footprint in the state of Massachusetts in close proximity to leading academic centers and qualified expertise that can be complimentary to our organization and add researchers that can grow with our team. I am proud to be delivering on our plans of continued investments to firmly establish a foothold within the state and with this expansion we confirm and reinforce our strong commitment to neurodegenerative diseases and MS research.”

In 2008, EMD Serono announced a planned expansion of its Billerica, MA laboratory to create a center of excellence in discovery, which is scheduled for completion in 2010. The Cambridge satellite laboratory, which will be approximately 18,000 sq. ft. in size, will address the company’s immediate need to secure necessary laboratory space for its additional scientists as a result of accelerated employee growth.

EMD Serono completed the first Phase III trial of an oral multiple sclerosis drug, cladribine, which is targeted for registration filing later this year. With these additional capabilities the company plans to focus research and development efforts towards Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative diseases.