Belgium's UCB is reengineering some of its research operations as it trims two percent of its global workforce. Its research division NewMedicines is being downsized, with 174 positions at its Braine-l'Alleud site in Belgium and 44 positions in Slough, England on the chopping block.
R&D isn't the only division to be affected by the cuts. It is streamlining support services, industrial development and administrative functions. Those layoffs follow the elimination of 2,000 jobs that were cut as the biopharma company narrowed its focus to a pipeline of key drug programs, according to Reuters.
"UCB's ability to adapt is key to maintaining our competitiveness within the world of biopharma innovation'' said Roch Doliveux, CEO of UCB. "We will help our employees to go through the changes ahead of us and I commit to an open and constructive dialogue with our social partners. Our priority will be to look for solutions that lead to a new future."
- check out UCB's release
- read the Reuters story