Nokia is to relocate its campus in Murray Hill, New Jersey by 2028 to a new state-of-the-art research and development (R&D) facility in the innovation and technology hub in New Brunswick. The new facility is designed to propel Nokia Bell Labs to adapt and evolve to remain at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and continue contributing to innovation in New Jersey.
Nishant Batra, Chief Strategy and Technology Officer at Nokia, said: “Our Murray Hill campus has been home to iconic Nokia Bell Labs innovation for over 80 years. As we look toward the future of Nokia and Nokia Bell Labs in the region, we will take with us all that makes us exceptional – our vision, brainpower, culture of disruptive innovation, and technical prowess – and marry that legacy with a modern research and development facility that is built to our needs. Ultimately, we want a facility that feels right for the next 100 years of Nokia Bell Labs.”
With bespoke laboratory facilities designed to meet the specific needs and focus areas of Nokia Bell Labs researchers, the company is investing in resources that will help it continue to make technological breakthroughs.
Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitment
The new facility will break ground in 2025. It is being developed by SJP Properties with community support provided by New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO), the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and the City of New Brunswick. The new building will additionally meet a minimum requirement of LEED Gold certification to contribute to Nokia’s target of net zero emissions by 2050 and deliver a 50% reduction by 2030. Furthermore, the new building will provide a more optimised space using modern technology for increased efficiency.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy says: “By announcing its new state-of-the art facility in the Helix, Nokia builds upon its remarkable legacy in the Garden State, a legacy that will continue to produce cutting-edge technologies and contribute to our burgeoning innovation ecosystem. What’s more, Nokia’s presence in New Brunswick’s growing tech hub will generate good-paying jobs and further solidify the city’s standing as a regional leader in the innovation economy.”
Alan Davidson, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator, adds: “Bell Labs has had a storied role in the growth of America’s tech industry. We’re excited to see companies like Nokia continuing to invest in America and support the next generation of technology innovation.”
New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill says: “Nokia Bell Labs’ commitment to New Brunswick as the home for their new research and development facility speaks volumes about the potential and promise our city holds. It is a testament to the collaborative spirit, innovation, and forward-thinking attitude that defines our community. This venture will not only bring economic opportunities to our city, but will also create a hub of creativity and expertise that will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of New Brunswick.”
Ronald G. Rios, Middlesex County Commissioner Director, says: “We’re excited to welcome Nokia as the newest tenant of the HELIX, joining a roster of distinguished organisations who prioritise education and value a robust talent pipeline that uniquely exists in our County.”
Tim Sullivan, NJEDA Chief Executive Officer, adds: “In the world of innovation, there may be no name more iconic than Bell Labs, and Nokia’s decision to build the next chapter of the Bell Labs story in the heart of New Jersey’s innovation ecosystem is extraordinarily good news.”
