A €36m investment in a ground-breaking innovation centre in Ringskiddy will lead to further advances in scientific 3D printing.

Tánaiste Simon Coveney announced a €36 million investment and 30 new jobs in research and development projects at the DePuy Synthes Ireland Innovation Centre, located at Loughbeg, Ringaskiddy.

It will result in significant developments at the company’s Materials and Surface Technology Centre, including co-location with Johnson & Johnson’s 3D Printing Center of Excellence.

Mr Coveney said: "DePuy Synthes’ investment of €36 million in innovation and the addition of 30 jobs at the company’s Materials Centre of Excellence is fantastic news for the region, and clearly demonstrates the strong commitment by DePuy to the site. This has been built on a solid track record of over 20 years of successful operations here in Cork.” 

Since launching a decade ago, the Centre has accelerated innovative technologies in orthopaedics. 

Projects will focus on advancing material science in 3D printing.

Shannon Crespin, VP, Global Supply Chain, DePuy Synthes said: “I’m delighted to be here for the announcement, which marks the next phase in the exciting R&D activity being undertaken at this Innovation Centre. 

"As the world’s most comprehensive medical devices business, our expert team continues to develop ground-breaking healthcare solutions, underlining our ongoing commitment to improving patient outcomes and shaping the future of healthcare delivery."

Gary Clerkin, Global Leader, Manufacturing Engineering, Science & Technology, DePuy Synthes, said: “This new programme will build on the dedication, hard work and excellent results delivered by the Innovation Centre over the past 10 years. 

"It is crucial that we continue to deliver impactful research outcomes, and this advanced Materials and Surface Technology Centre will help accelerate innovation through the supply chain and shape the products of the future. A central element of this investment, the 3D Printing Development and Launch Center, complements the 3D Bioprinting partnership with Trinity College Dublin launched last year.” 

The five-year project is supported by the Department of Business, Enterprise & Innovation, through IDA Ireland.