ZEISS Innovation Center California
ZEISS, the leading global optics and optoelectronics technology company, has completed construction of its new R&D, production, sales and customer service site in the San Francisco Bay Area in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in Summer 2021. Bringing together hundreds of ZEISS employees and key functions under one roof, the $180 million investment represents a major milestone in the company’s international innovation and growth strategy. But it was not until now that more than 700 employees moved in the new building in compliance with COVID-19 precautions – and the move-in continues.
The opening of the ZEISS Innovation Center coincided with the 175th anniversary of the ZEISS Group, which was founded in 1846 in Jena, Germany. The anniversary was celebrated with a virtual ceremony in November 2021. ZEISS was particularly delighted to announce the achievement of further record results in his anniversary year. The company has a long-held commitment to open, unbiased and science-based problem-solving leading to breakthrough technologies that benefit current and future generations. In that spirit, the Innovation Center is designed to foster entrepreneurial ventures among ZEISS employees, research partners and customers in a state-of-the-art open, team-oriented work environment.
An Entrepreneurial Ecosystem that Cultivates Technology Innovations
The ZEISS Innovation Center in Dublin, California, houses customer experience and demonstration centers showcasing recent ZEISS innovations, as well as research laboratories, service and production facilities. With engineers, researchers, and sales and service teams from across ZEISS located on the same premises, global customers and partners will be able to more fully benefit from ZEISS’ expertise.
The Center also serves as the US headquarters for the ZEISS medical technology business, bundled under the Frankfurt-listed company Carl Zeiss Meditec AG in which ZEISS holds the majority. ZEISS medical technology develops and distributes cutting-edge solutions for ophthalmology and microsurgery worldwide. The investment in the new California site underscores the commitment to developing advanced technologies that improve the quality of life of patients, and that drive progress, efficiency and access in healthcare.
The new site also brings together the X-Ray Microscopy business and the ZEISS Microscopy Customer Center, strengthening initiatives to realize growing market and R&D opportunities in materials research, life sciences and industrial applications. The co-location of the microscopy and ophthalmology businesses offers additional collaborative opportunities, particularly in image processing, machine learning and artificial intelligence.
The ZEISS Process Control Solutions activities for the ZEISS Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology segment is also based at the Center.
A High-Tech Building that Reflects a Commitment to Sustainability
In line with its strong technology track record, the ZEISS Innovation Center meets the highest green energy and sustainability standards. The building is powered by solar energy, supported by use-based light and air controls and a heat recovery system. Sophisticated light and insulation technologies help regulate the indoor temperature. Rainwater collection and retention, along with wetland enhancement and maintenance, are incorporated into the exterior design. To support commutes and help reduce traffic congestion and pollution, employees have access to electric vehicle chargers, bike storage, and carpool options.