Gilead opens state-of-the-art Research Center to advance the next generation of medicines

FOSTER CITY, Calif. — Gilead Sciences is celebratng the opening of its 182,000-square-foot Research Center at its Foster City headquarters, expanding capabilities in oncology, inflammation and research data science to advance medicines for some of the world’s most challenging diseases. The new Research Center builds on Gilead's longstanding presence in California. Today, Gilead employs approximately 11,000 people across the United States, including more than 7,400 in California and nearly 4,700 in the Bay Area.

Gilead marked the milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by company leaders, scientists and government and community guests, including U.S. Representative Kevin Mullin of California’s 15th Congressional District and California State Assemblymember Diane Papan.

“We are in a moment of unprecedented opportunity in science and technology. Our new Research Center will help Gilead scientists make the most of that opportunity, delivering more breakthrough medicines faster," said Daniel O'Day, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Gilead Sciences. “As part of our broader $32 billion investment in the United States, this new facility also reflects our long-term commitment to American innovation."

The Research Center is one of three major Foster City projects advancing Gilead’s broader U.S. investment in research, development and manufacturing through 2030. The Technical Development Center, expected to open in 2027, and the biologics facility, which broke ground in August and is expected to open in 2029, will further strengthen Gilead’s U.S. research and development infrastructure. “The future of biomedical innovation depends on bringing together exceptional science, advanced technologies and diverse expertise,” said Flavius Martin, MD, Executive Vice President, Research, Gilead Sciences. “This center was designed to do exactly that. By co-locating key research disciplines and expanding our data science capabilities, we are strengthening the infrastructure needed to accelerate discovery and advance meaningful innovations.”

Designed with input from Gilead research colleagues, the five-story center will support approximately 325 employees, including 260 laboratory scientists. Flexible laboratory neighborhoods, specialized collaboration spaces and shared technology platforms will enable teams to adapt as scientific needs evolve. All-electric systems, energy-efficient design and water-saving landscaping featuring California native plants are expected to support LEED Gold certification.

“Foster City is home to some of the most important biomedical research happening anywhere in the world, and Gilead’s continued investment here is a vote of confidence in California’s life sciences workforce,” said Kevin Mullin, U.S. Representative for California’s 15th Congressional District. “The new center expands Gilead’s research capacity in Foster City, supporting the region’s biotechnology leadership and skilled workforce.”

A dedicated bridge to an adjacent building streamlines the transfer of equipment and research materials, while the new Research Quad provides a central gathering space for collaboration and scientific exchange.

“San Mateo County is one of the most important and vital biotechnology centers in the world,” said Diane Papan, California State Assemblymember, 21st District. “Gilead’s sustained support for science, infrastructure and skilled jobs only strengthens our position.”