'The investment again demonstrates BASF's commitment to white biotechnology, one of this century's key technologies with vast potential for innovation. Furthermore the new lab is an important step on the way to an even more globally organized research, and a very good base for successful new alliances in North America,' said Dr. Harald Lauke, Head of Biological & Effect Systems Research.

BASF has more than three decades of experience in white biotechnology. The company uses biotechnological methods to produce products such as vitamins, enzymes, pharmaceutical intermediates and specialties for the personal care, food and feed industries. One focus of the research laboratory work is to develop even more efficient and resource-conserving production processes. The use of metabolic engineering – the targeted modification of metabolism – is set to enhance the efficiency of the microorganisms used in these production processes.

Another important focus of the lab is to get a detailed understanding of the development of bacterial biofilms. Bacteria – individually or in colonies – tend to form on wet surfaces of objects and can be the cause of life-threatening infections in patients especially within hospital settings. In cooperation with material researchers, new solutions are being developed to help prevent such infections.

'In Tarrytown, we have created the foundations for all these research areas,' commented Dr. Markus Pompejus, Head of the bioactive materials group and in charge of the biotechnology research in Tarrytown. 'Now it is all about turning our ideas into innovative products and solutions.'

About BASF

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products and crop protection products to oil and gas. We combine economic success, social responsibility and environmental protection. Through science and innovation we enable our customers in almost all industries to meet the current and future needs of society. Our products and system solutions contribute to conserving resources, ensuring healthy food and nutrition and helping to improve the quality of life. We have summed up this contribution in our corporate purpose: We create chemistry for a sustainable future. BASF posted sales of about €63.9 billion in 2010 and had approximately 109,000 employees as of the end of 2010. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com or in the Social Media Newsroom at newsroom.basf.com .