Gilead unveils new Foster City facility dedicated to oncology, inflammation, and data science research

Facility brings together oncology, inflammation, and research data science teams to encourage closer scientific collaboration

One of three Foster City projects supporting Gilead’s $32 billion U.S. investment and 3,000 new high-quality domestic jobs

Gilead Sciences, Inc. marked the opening of its 182,000-square-foot Research Center at its Foster City headquarters, expanding its capabilities in oncology, inflammation, and research data science with the goal of advancing treatments for some of the world’s most difficult diseases. The new center builds on Gilead’s long history in California, where the company now employs roughly 11,000 people across the United States, including more than 7,400 in California and nearly 4,700 in the Bay Area alone.

The new 182,000-square-foot Research Center represents the latest step in Gilead’s broader $32 billion commitment to U.S. research, development, and manufacturing through 2030.

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

Daniel O’Day, chairman and chief executive officer of Gilead Sciences, said the company is operating in a moment of extraordinary opportunity in science and technology, and that the new Research Center will help Gilead scientists capitalize on that opportunity by delivering breakthrough medicines more quickly. He said the facility, as part of the company’s wider $32 billion U.S. investment, reflects Gilead’s long-term commitment to American innovation.

The Research Center is one of three major Foster City projects supporting Gilead’s broader investment in U.S. research, development, and manufacturing through 2030. A Technical Development Center, expected to open in 2027, along with a biologics facility that broke ground in August and is expected to open in 2029, will further build out Gilead’s U.S. research and development infrastructure.

Flavius Martin, MD, executive vice president of research at Gilead Sciences, said the future of biomedical innovation depends on bringing together outstanding science, advanced technology, and a wide range of expertise. He said the new center was built specifically for that purpose, and that by co-locating key research disciplines and expanding data science capabilities, Gilead is strengthening the infrastructure needed to speed up discovery and advance meaningful breakthroughs.

Shaped with input from Gilead’s own research staff, the five-story center will house approximately 325 employees, including 260 laboratory scientists. Flexible lab neighborhoods, dedicated collaboration spaces, and shared technology platforms are designed to let teams adapt as scientific priorities shift over time. All-electric systems, energy-efficient design, and water-saving landscaping featuring California native plants are expected to help the facility achieve LEED Gold certification.

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

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

Diane Papan, California State Assemblymember for the 21st District, said San Mateo County stands as one of the most important and vital biotechnology hubs in the world, and that Gilead’s continued support for science, infrastructure, and skilled jobs further strengthens the region’s position.

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Related Topics and Keywords

gilead, Oncology