Roche Opens New Institute of Human Biology Research Hub To Advance Human-Centric Drug Discovery, Strengthens Swiss R&D Footprint

Roche has inaugurated a new research facility dedicated to its Institute of Human Biology, marking a key step in the company’s efforts to harness advanced human model systems for next-generation drug discovery and development. The new centre reflects Roche’s commitment to transforming biomedical research by creating more predictive and human-relevant platforms for therapeutic innovation.

Azad Bonni, Global Head and Director of the Institute of Human Biology: “Modern medicine requires sophisticated technologies. By pioneering human model systems and better understanding human disease, we will move beyond the limitations of traditional research to predict if and how new treatments will work in people. This new research facility allows our scientists to make and translate discoveries at the intersection of fundamental and industry sciences, changing how we understand and tackle human disease."

The Institute of Human Biology integrates expertise in human disease biology, computational science, and translational bioengineering to develop highly precise models that closely mimic real human disease conditions. By combining multidisciplinary capabilities, researchers can build advanced platforms, including engineered tissue cultures, organoids, microfluidic organ-on-a-chip systems, and sophisticated in silico simulations. These technologies are designed to improve scientific understanding of disease mechanisms and accelerate the development of more effective treatments.

Thomas Schinecker, CEO of the Roche Group: “The inauguration of the Institute of Human Biology reinforces our commitment to Switzerland as a global innovation hub, where Roche invests around CHF 3.5 billion in research each year. By combining human organoid models with artificial intelligence, IHB has the potential to change how we discover and develop new medicines, making research and development more predictive and more efficient. Together with our partners, we aim to bring innovative treatments to patients faster.”

The new facility, known as Building 92, will accommodate up to 250 scientists and has been designed to promote collaboration between fundamental research and industry-driven science. Featuring modular laboratory infrastructure, the site supports flexible expansion and encourages cross-disciplinary innovation. Roche is investing CHF 1.4 billion in ongoing development across its Basel and Kaiseraugst campuses and has committed approximately CHF 41 billion to Swiss operations between 2016 and 2025, including major investments in research and development.