Sequenom locates Asia HQ in Queensland

US-based genetics company, Sequenom, has chosen Queensland as the location for its Asia-Pacific regional headquarters, Premier Peter Beattie has announced.

"Sequenom's decision confirms Queensland's growing world-wide reputation as a smart state and an ideal location in the Asia-Pacific for biotechnology companies, regional headquarters, and global innovators," said Mr Beattie.

Mr Beattie announced the creation of the headquarters at a media conference with Tristan Orpin, Sequenom's Vice President of Corporate Sales and Marketing, and Professor Michael Good, Director of Queensland Institute of Medical Research. The headquarters is in the new Comprehensive Cancer Research Centre at the Institute.

Sequenom's business is determining the medical impact of genes. It has a production operation and headquarters in San Diego, and laboratories in Boston, Germany, Sweden, the UK and Canada.

"Creating a critical mass of biotechnology researchers and companies is part of my government's smart state strategy of creating thousands of long-term, new-age jobs for our children," said Mr Beattie.

Professor Good reinforced the importance of the move for Queensland. "Because the Sequenom headquarters will also serve as a training centre for the company's clients and partners in the Asia-Pacific, Queensland's biotech research and industry will also be on display to major players from throughout the area."

The regional headquarters represents an initial investment of $3 million and is expected to have an economic impact of more than $10 million in its first five years by which time more than 20 people are likely to be employed there.