Evotec Completes Just.Bio Acquisition

Evotec has completed its deal to acquire Just Biotherapeutics, accelerating Evotec’s long-term strategy to strengthen its multimodality approach to R&D, and expanding its U.S. footprint and machine learning capabilities.

Evotec acquired Just.Bio to integrate their machine-learning technologies and flexible methods for the design, development, and manufacture of biologics into Evotec’s drug discovery offerings. Just.Bio’s approximately 95 employees and its biologic development and manufacturing site in Seattle, WA, will expand Evotec’s U.S. footprint. Just.Bio’s capabilities and expertise comprise an in-house, integrated technology platform, J.DESIGN, enabling smart and efficient biologics’ drug development from design and lead optimization to manufacturing.

“We are pleased to have been able to swiftly close the acquisition of Just.Bio,” said Werner Lanthaler, chief executive officer, Evotec. “With the integration of Just.Bio’s expertise in biologics and their outstanding human talent, we will accelerate our ability to build better molecules with cutting-edge technologies for our customers as well as our own pipeline.”

James Thomas, executive vice president, global head, biotherapeutics, president U.S. operations, Evotec, said, “Starting with a small group of creative and passionate employees, we’ve made remarkably fast progress building a state-of-the-art technology platform for expanding global access to biologics. Joining forces with Evotec will build upon these accomplishments and accelerate expansion of our advanced capabilities in Seattle, a growing hub of technology innovation. We are thrilled to be part of the excellent Evotec global team.”