Qiagen Sciences Inc. opened its new, state-of-the-art research and manufacturing complex in Germantown, MD. Qiagen Sciences completed the 200,000- square-foot headquarters in less than two years. The company plans to employ more than 300 trained workers and scientists to manufacture and develop products for the separation, purification and handling of nucleic acids for the steadily growing US life science markets. Qiagen's carefully planned facility consists of several buildings in a campus- like arrangement, situated on 24 acres. It will accommodate more than 200 employees in manufacturing as well as 100 employees in research and development. Manufacturing activities will start by the end of February.