BASF has opened a new white biotechnology and microbiology research center in Tarrytown, N.Y.

FLORHAM PARK, NJ, February 22, 2012 -- BASF has opened a new white biotechnology and microbiology research center in Tarrytown, N.Y. In the new laboratory, biologists and biotechnologists will work to develop more efficient biotechnological production processes and - together with material researchers - develop new antimicrobial products for medical technology, hygiene and health care.

"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 foundation 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."

For a press photo of the opening of BASF's white biotechnology research lab, please click on the following link:

http://www.basf.us/pressphotos/02-22-12_TarrytownLab.jpg

Suggested photo caption:

BASF dedicates its new biotechnology laboratory in Tarrytown, N.Y. From left are: Carsten Sieden, Senior Vice President of BASF's Fine Chemicals and Biocatalysis Research; Dr.Lauralynn Kourtz, BASF Biotechnology Chemist; Dr. Harald Lauke, President of Biological & Effect Systems Research; Dr. Richard Losick, Harvard professor and member of BASF-Harvard Research Initiative; Dr. Beate Ehle, President, Market & Business Development, BASF Corporation; Allison Guinta, BASF Biotechnology Scientist; Dr. Markus Pompejus, Head of BASF's Bioactive Materials Group; and Dr. Volker Schaedler,Vice President, Innovation/Technology, BASF Corporation.

BASF - The Chemical Company

BASF Corporation, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has approximately 16,400 employees in North America, and had sales of $17.7 billion in 2010. For more information about BASF's North American operations, visitwww.basf.us.

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, and agricultural products to oil and gas. As a reliable partner, BASF creates chemistry to help its customers in virtually all industries to be more successful. With its high-value products and intelligent solutions, BASF plays an important role in finding answers to global challenges, such as climate protection, energy efficiency, nutrition and mobility.BASF posted sales of more than €63.9 billion in 2010 and had approximately 109,000employees as of the end of the year. Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com or in the Social Media Newsroom at newsroom.basf.com.