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Affinivax, now part of GSK, is a clinical-stage biotechnology company revolutionizing vaccine technology with its next-generation Multiple Antigen Presenting System (MAPS™) platform. Founded in 2014 by Steve Brugger, Rick Malley, Kamran Tavangar, Fan Zhang, and Yingjie Lu, Affinivax focused on developing preventive and therapeutic vaccines to provide broader protection against infectious and immune-mediated diseases. During their early days, Affinivax was one of the first residents at LabCentral to leverage the collaborative space and resources to scale their operations. Their journey led to significant success, culminating in their acquisition by GSK in August 2022.
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As a young biotech startup, Affinivax had impressive vaccine technology but faced the practical challenges of scaling their laboratory operations, building their team, and establishing their presence in Cambridge's competitive biotech ecosystem.
They needed more than just space; they needed a fully equipped laboratory where they could efficiently grow their operations. In Cambridge's bustling innovation landscape, they also needed connections—a community where they could strengthen their footing, attract talent, and build meaningful industry relationships.
The considerable requirements of navigating regulatory processes, permitting, procurement systems, and hazardous waste management protocols presented additional complexity. For a company focused on revolutionary vaccine development, these administrative necessities could potentially divert valuable time and attention away from their core mission.
Enter LabCentral—not just a space, but a launchpad. With access to fully equipped, compliant lab environments, Affinivax could channel their energy into what mattered most: recruiting top-tier scientists and advancing their vaccine platform.
The vibrant, collaborative atmosphere became a magnet for talent. Being surrounded by fellow innovators in Kendall Square's biotech hub created natural opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and industry visibility—the kind of ecosystem where good ideas find the resources they need to grow.
LabCentral's leadership proved to be more than just hosts; they became guides as Affinivax navigated early-stage growth. The flexible space model allowed them to evolve at their own pace, expanding thoughtfully from their initial footprint at 700 Main Street to eventually occupy the largest available suite at the 610 Main Street facility—a physical manifestation of their scientific and business success.
"The ready-made infrastructure—the shared laboratory format, along with all necessary permits, hazardous waste management, centralized front office and procurement, security, and IT—were essential, letting us prioritize the hiring of scientists. We also had the flexibility to grow at our own pace."
"LabCentral’s community is truly special for building a young company. Biotechnology startups need to be in Cambridge—specifically Kendall Square—and LabCentral provides an adaptive, established model designed to set companies up for success from day one."
"The vibrant community helped us attract, motivate, and retain employees. When you only have 4-5 people on your team, being in the heart of Cambridge with 30 other people is huge. It’s not just one element that makes LabCentral special; it’s the perfect blend of resources, community, and Johannes' visionary leadership that sets it apart."
