41° and Sunny
Nokia Bell Labs Ushers in New Era with State-of-the-Art R&D Hub in New Brunswick
In a major shift, Nokia announced the relocation of its iconic Murray Hill campus to a modern, innovative facility in New Jersey’s growing tech hub.
NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ – Yesterday, on December 11, 2023, Nokia declared a strategic decision to transition its Murray Hill campus to a state-of-the-art R&D facility in New Brunswick's emerging technology hub. This initiative aims to ensure Nokia Bell Labs remains a leader in global innovation, fostering technological advancements.
Historic Legacy Continues: Nokia Bell Labs, the industrial research division of Nokia, has been synonymous with groundbreaking technological feats, including seminal advancements like the first transistor, solar cell, and the evolution of cellular and satellite communications. The Murray Hill campus has been a pivotal site for these innovations.
A Vision for the Future: Nishant Batra, Nokia's Chief Strategy and Technology Officer, emphasized the continuation of Nokia Bell Labs' legacy of disruptive innovation and technical prowess. He highlighted the importance of a facility designed to cater to the evolving research needs, aiming to set the stage for the next century of innovation.
Collaboration at Core: The new location was chosen for its proximity to academic institutions, industry leaders, and startups, fostering a collaborative ecosystem. The facility will focus on disruptive technologies, including quantum computing, photonics, 6G, AI, and industrial automation, with laboratories tailored to Nokia Bell Labs' needs.
Sustainable and Efficient Design: The groundbreaking for the new facility is slated for 2025. It is being developed by SJP Properties in collaboration with New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO), the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), and the City of New Brunswick, targeting a LEED Gold certification and aligning with Nokia’s sustainability goals.
State and Local Support: New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy lauded the decision, aligning with the state’s vision to foster an innovation ecosystem. New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill and Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios also expressed enthusiasm for the economic and innovative growth this move promises.
A Commitment to Innovation: Tim Sullivan, CEO of NJEDA, highlighted the iconic stature of Bell Labs in the innovation world, praising the strategic decision to continue its legacy in New Jersey. Furthermore, Nokia announced a venture studio in New Jersey to commercialize Nokia Bell Labs' innovations, in partnership with Celesta Capital and America's Frontier Fund.
Engagement and Transparency: Nokia will be presenting more details about the facility on December 11 at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, inviting federal, state, and local officials to participate.
