Leggett Hails Opening of Viela Bio, Medimmune Spin-Out

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett today hailed the announcement that Viela Bio, a newly-formed spin-out of MedImmune, the global biologics research and development arm of AstraZeneca, will open for business in Gaithersburg, with plans to create 100 jobs within three to five years.

Viela Bio’s work will focus on developing medicines for severe autoimmune diseases by targeting critical pathways that are the root cause of disease. The company has announced a Series A financing with up to $250 million in investment capital.

“I am very excited that Viela Bio will take its place alongside the many successful biotech firms that call Montgomery County home,” said County Executive Leggett. “By pioneering critical advances in life sciences, these firms are aiming to ease suffering and bring important medicines to patients – right here in Maryland and around the world. They are doing well – and doing good.”

“I am thrilled to welcome yet another biotech company to Montgomery County, which is one of the top biotech hubs in the world,” said Council President Hans Riemer. “Great companies like Viela Bio choose Montgomery County for our incredibly talented workforce and excellent quality of life.”

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Release ID: 18-456
Media Contact: Patrick Lacefield 240-777-6507