Bristol-Myers Squibb has plans to expand its R&D capabilities in India in collaboration with Biocon Ltd. and Accenture Ltd. According to a company statement, BMS will work with Biocon, India’s largest biotechnology firm, to set up a research facility in Bangalore to help its discovery and early drug development. The Bangalore facility will have the potential to accommodate more than 400 scientists.

BMS also entered a multi-year agreement with Accenture, a consulting firm, to include support for clinical data and document management, pharmacovigilance, and scientific writing functions in India. Accenture will also provide maintenance and support for R&D information systems, according to BMS.

“This broad expansion of R&D in India will allow us to grow competitively while maintaining our industry-leading position in productivity and innovation,” said Elliott Sigal, executive vice president of BMS.