Janesville expansion supports local product innovation for growers

Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, today showcased the expansion of its Janesville, Wis., corn research facility during an open house for customers and community members. The 12,000-foot expansion nearly doubled the size of the current facility and allows for increased research capacity at the site. "This expansion is part of our research investment to help growers meet the growing global demand for food," said John Soper, vice president - Pioneer Crop Genetics, Research and Development, who spoke at the open house. "The Janesville research station develops products that meet the needs of Wisconsin and Northern Illinois growers, with the goal of maximizing their productivity and profitability." Established in 1982, the Janesville research center develops and evaluates corn hybrid products that best fit Wisconsin and Northern Illinois maturity zones and environmental pressures, including insect and disease pests. Currently, the center has about 25 full-time employees. The Janesville expansion is the latest of several recent U.S. investments made by Pioneer and announced this year, including the expansion of testing facilities in Auburn, N.Y.; the addition of a corn research facility in Plain City, Ohio, announced in January; and planned expansions in the Wilmington, Del., biotech facility. This follows the announcement in 2010 that Pioneer is expanding the greenhouse and research facilities at Johnston, Iowa, headquarters. Individuals seeking additional information on career opportunities with Pioneer can visit www.pioneer.com. Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, is the world's leading developer and supplier of advanced plant genetics, providing high-quality seeds to farmers in more than 90 countries. Pioneer provides agronomic support and services to help increase farmer productivity and profitability and strives to develop sustainable agricultural systems for people everywhere. Science with Service Delivering Success™. DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 90 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation. 06.14.2011