Sonoma Biotherapeutics recently opened a new research and development center on Seattle’s waterfront. The company, which also has a location in South San Francisco, focuses on treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases by using regulatory T cells to protect cells under attack. The new center spans 83,000 square feet and is equipped with lab space for 65 scientists working on early-stage research before clinical trials.
The newly remodeled space features scientific equipment such as research benches, incubators, centrifuges, fume hoods, microscopes, refrigerators, and more, filling bright rooms with views of Puget Sound. The design allows for flexibility, with moveable lab benches and clustered ceiling outlets to accommodate new devices. The center also includes shared workspaces, glass-walled conference rooms, and offices for visiting employees and executives from California.
Sonoma Biotherapeutics began designing the center in 2022, with construction starting in the summer of 2023. The move is seen as positive in a slowed biotech sector in Western Washington, where life science space vacancy rates have been rising. The company is currently recruiting patients for two clinical trials focusing on rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory skin conditions. Sonoma also recently partnered with Regeneron to co-develop cell therapies for various conditions.
The company’s new center will eventually include manufacturing spaces on two additional floors, but the timing for that build out has not been determined. Sonoma has more than 130 employees split between its Seattle and South San Francisco locations. The building on Elliott Avenue, formerly occupied by tech company F5, also houses offices for other companies in the area, such as Expedia Group’s sprawling campus and F5 Tower.
Sonoma received a $75 million upfront payment from Regeneron as part of their partnership, with potential for a $45 million milestone payment. Additionally, the company has raised $335 million in venture capital funding. The center’s fourth floor is not part of Sonoma’s lease and remains unoccupied. The company’s focus on groundbreaking treatments for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases demonstrates their commitment to advancing medical research and treatments.
