Novo Nordisk establishes new obesity research unit in Seattle

The new unit is a result of Novo Nordisk’s increasing focus on treatment of obesity. Its main task will be to identify novel approaches and targets for obesity treatments while increasing the scientific understanding of existing obesity targets.

“Our ambition is to drive scientific progress in the obesity disease area and through this identify and develop new treatment options for people with obesity”, said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, executive vice president and chief science officer at Novo Nordisk.

Dr Kevin Grove has accepted the position as head of the Novo Nordisk Obesity Research Unit in Seattle. Grove is a renowned expert in endocrinology specialising in obesity and health-related quality of life, and joins Novo Nordisk from a position as senior scientist at the Oregon Health & Science University, and founding division chief, Division of Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism.

“I’m looking forward to leading the Novo Nordisk Obesity Research Unit in Seattle and gather a team of preeminent researchers within the obesity and endocrinology field. We have a real opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the management of this disease that impacts so many people globally”, said Dr Kevin Grove.

The Novo Nordisk Obesity Research Unit will initially employ around 10 people, supported by the current obesity research and corporate functions. When fully operational by the end of 2016, the unit is expected to employ around 60 employees. Globally, around 300 employees are working within obesity research and development at Novo Nordisk.

The Obesity Research Unit will be co-located with the Novo Nordisk Type 1 Diabetes Research Unit at the company’s research centre in Seattle, which opened in 2009.