The new biotech and research centre will bring together 300 scientists working with cutting-edge AI technology to fast-track new crop protection products
Agri-chemical giant Syngenta has begun work on a £100 million research centre for crop protection that it says demonstrates enhanced commitment to the UK as a key hub for global R&D.
The Biological Sciences Technology and Research center (BioSTaR) will deliver the latest advances in biological sciences, molecular and analytical research and digital innovation.
Significant investment in cutting-edge AI capabilities will accelerate and deliver the next generation of crop protection products at the site.
The centre will be located at Syngenta’s Jealott’s Hill R&D site, already the largest agri-tech facility in the UK and Syngenta’s largest crop protection R&D site worldwide, employing more than 800 scientists.
“Our investment in BioSTaR signals the next chapter in Jealott’s Hill’s critical role in advancing agricultural innovation,” said president of Syngenta UK, Mike Hollands.
Expected to be fully operational in 2028, the BioSTaR facility will bring together approximately 300 scientists who already work at Jealott’s Hill, in a purpose‑built environment “to accelerate discovery and product development”.
Research will range from crop protection solutions with novel modes of action and anticipating resistance before it develops, to new classes of crop protection tools and biological agents.
Attending a ‘breaking ground’ ceremony yesterday (23 March), farming minister Angela Eagle said: “Syngenta’s investment in the new BioSTaR facility at Jealott’s Hill is a clear vote of confidence in the UK and our world-leading agricultural science.”
“At Syngenta, we are focused on creating a more productive and sustainable future for agriculture. With this investment, we are pushing the boundaries of science,” said Camilla Corsi, Global Head of Crop Protection R&D at Syngenta.
Syngenta holds more than 10,000 patents in seed and crop protection, and invests $800 million every year in in crop protection R&D. The newest innovation developed at the site, Virestina, is designed to control herbicide-resistant weeds.
The UK investment is part of a long-term strategy to strengthen research capabilities around the world, which also includes hubs in Switzerland, the US and China, Syngenta said.
