Evonik opens new research hub in Singapore

GERMAN specialty chemicals firm Evonik Industries has opened a research hub in Singapore as part of its efforts to internationalise research and development (R&D) activities.

The centre, located in Biopolis, will perform research in functional surfaces and additive manufacturing, and will also be the base for a tissue engineering project. It will have a headcount of 50 people.

Evonik deputy chairman Harald Schwager said innovation is an integral part of the group's growth strategy.

"We are actively pursuing new opportunities to boost our international R&D activities and the opening of this research hub is a significant contribution to these efforts," he said in a statement.

"By focusing on promising research areas for the future, this hub will strengthen our position as a global leader in specialty chemicals."

With the research hub, Evonik will be expanding its collaboration with public and private research institutions and organisations in Singapore.

The group has formed a partnership with Nanyang Technological University to develop new technologies in additive manufacturing for industrial application.

Evonik said it chose to locate the research centre in Singapore due to the availability of highly qualified researchers from local science faculties and the government's efficiency.

Singapore Economic Development Board chairman Beh Swan Gin said the new research hub is an example of how companies can leverage Singapore's skilled workforce and research ecosystem to establish R&D partnerships in emerging areas such as additive manufacturing and functional surfaces.

"We look forward to the team at Evonik Asia Research Hub generating innovative and high-impact solutions for their customers in the region and beyond," he said.