Cambridge-based property investor and developer Howard Group has confirmed the relocation of IONTAS, a global leader in outsourced antibody discovery services, to The Works at Unity Campus.
IONTAS has signed a new ten-year lease for 15,000 sq ft of ground floor laboratory, write up and office space within The Works, as well as an additional 4,500 sq ft within Sawston Trade Park. The space, which will accommodate the organisation’s biology laboratories and administrative functions, will facilitate a major expansion drive targeting new markets and new applications of IONTAS’ science.
Having been based at Iconix 2, Unity Campus for five years, IONTAS’ relocation to The Works is a reflection of the trusted, long-term partnership developed between the two organisations; which has enabled Howard Group to provide the global biotech company with the right accommodation at each pivotal stage of its development, both now and into the future.
Ideally positioned within the fast-paced south Cambridge life science and technology cluster, The Works is a unique 63,000 sq ft building ideally suited to office, combined office/R&D and light/dry laboratory occupiers. The imposing building – the first of the new buildings to be constructed at Unity Campus – was designed by world leading architects, NBBJ. Retaining the original concrete frame and featuring exposed services and premium finishes which exude a high-quality industrial aesthetic, The Works takes its design inspiration from the original warehouse which formally stood on the site. Now 50% occupied, The Works is attracting significant interest in the remaining space.
Colin Brown, Director – Development, Howard Group said: “To secure such a high-calibre international occupier like IONTAS is fantastic news and further enhances the life science credentials of the campus.
“It is a hugely significant letting, and encouraging to see The Works attracting such inspiring, cutting-edge companies who clearly value the position of the campus within the south Cambridge cluster, the ease at which it can be reached by road, rail, bike and on foot and the exciting, swiftly expanding like-minded community located on site. We look forward to supporting the IONTAS team as they continue their journey with us and wish them every success with their future growth.”
Founded by John McCafferty, the pioneer and inventor of antibody-phage display and co-founder of Cambridge Antibody Technology, IONTAS is an incredibly innovative company focused on antibody discovery and cutting-edge technology development. In May 2020, IONTAS joined forces with FairJourney Biologics, to create a global leader in outsourced antibody discovery services. The transaction was financed by GHO Capital Partners LLP, the European specialist investor in healthcare.
Antonio Parada, CEO, IONTAS commented: “This move represents a significant milestone for us and our Partners. The Works grants us improved operational efficiencies and space to better serve our Partners and to facilitate the growing need of IONTAS’s next generation mammalian display technology. IONTAS retains deep roots to Cambridge, and it is imperative for us to continue expanding within one of the leading global hubs of science and innovation. In addition, the new site allows us to continue recruiting driven and talented scientists to enable exceptional service for our clients around the world.”
