Eli Lilly Expands Biotechnology Support with Gateway Labs Opening in San Diego

Eli Lilly and Company has marked a significant milestone with the launch of its newest Lilly Gateway Labs (LGL) site in San Diego, California. This facility aims to nurture the local biotechnology landscape and foster innovation within the field. Positioned within the One Alexandria Square Megacampus in Torrey Pines, this state-of-the-art laboratory spans 82,514 square feet and is explicitly designed to support up to 15 life sciences companies.

This development reflects Lilly's commitment to adapting to the needs of the biotechnology ecosystem, offering flexible lab space and opportunities for collaboration with the expertise of Lilly’s scientists. Daniel Skovronsky, M.D., Ph.D., the Chief Scientific Officer and President of Lilly Research Laboratories, emphasized the importance of cooperative efforts between academia, biotech startups, and large pharmaceutical enterprises. He stated, "The future of medicine is intertwined with the collective strengths of all these sectors, enabling breakthroughs for some of the toughest medical challenges."

The Gateway Labs model provides emerging companies with access to cutting-edge wet lab facilities, strategic guidance, and the necessary tools to navigate the complexities linked to drug discovery and development. This approach is tailored to accelerate each startup’s progress towards pivotal milestones while offering substantial operational support. Lilly Gateway Labs has also established itself as a prevalent model, with existing locations in South San Francisco and Boston, alongside an international opening in Beijing, thereby connecting a global network of innovators.

Since its inception in 2019, the Gateway Labs initiative has proven to be remarkably successful, with participating companies raising over $2 billion in capital, aiding the development of more than 50 therapeutic entities and platforms currently in progress. Julie Gilmore, Ph.D., Vice President and Global Head of Lilly Gateway Labs, spoke about their high-touch partnership approach. She affirmed that they prioritize understanding how they can assist biotechs, which drives their engagement strategy.

The newly inaugurated LGL San Diego site has already begun attracting several early-stage biotech firms focused on the latest therapeutic modalities, tackling some of the most intricate bodily systems and challenging diseases. The Gateway Labs initiative is part of a broader series of projects under Lilly Catalyze360, which includes Lilly Ventures and Lilly TuneLab, aimed at empowering biotech innovation through strategic investments, laboratory access, and advanced research capabilities, including artificial intelligence applications.

Valuing Science and Collaboration

Lilly's expertise, spanning nearly 150 years, is crucial in shaping advancements in medicine, including areas such as diabetes management, obesity, and various oncological treatments. This commitment to enhancing human life is at the core of Lilly’s mission, as they strive to make their capabilities accessible and affordable to ensure wider public health benefits.

The Gateway Labs initiative stands out not only for its physical resources but also for its unique approach to facilitating scientific collaboration. By creating spaces where startup companies interact with seasoned researchers and industry veterans, the model encourages an exchange of ideas that transcends traditional boundaries in the biotech field.

In summary, Eli Lilly’s new Gateway Laboratory in San Diego represents a pivotal investment in the local biotechnology sector. It sets the stage for future developments that could lead to ground-breaking therapies and medical innovations. As growth continues at Lilly Gateway Labs, the biotech community can expect a more robust and supportive infrastructure aimed at transforming health solutions actively.

For further information about the Lilly Gateway Labs initiative, visit Gateway Labs.