DLA Piper has advised global life sciences company Novo Nordisk on a new research facility to be built on the University of Oxford campus.

When completed, the research centre will employ up to 100 Novo Nordisk researchers working alongside University of Oxford academics. R&D scientists from Novo Nordisk (both locally employed and those visiting from the headquarters in Denmark) will be collaborating with academic staff and students to discover, develop and manufacture biological medicines to help defeat serious chronic conditions: diabetes, obesity and metabolic disorders. Novo Nordisk's total investment will be £115 million over a period of 10 years.

Head of Real Estate, Leeds,  partner Tim Field and Birmingham Tax partner Mark Burgess led the team advising on the development. Additionally DLA Piper advised on planning consent issues, and all related property issues.

Partner Tim Field said:

"I was delighted to work alongside the Novo Nordisk team in Copenhagen to bring the project to fruition. Discussions between the parties commenced before the UK's referendum vote, and it is therefore hugely significant that the deal exchanged notwithstanding the UK's decision to leave the EU.

"The fact that a global company such as Novo Nordisk is investing in the UK is a reflection of both the UK's stellar reputation for research and development, and its excellent global transport links. We look forward to seeing this partnership develop over the coming years for the benefit of many people who suffer these serious conditions."