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The cell therapy facility began operations in May 2025. Credit: Montgomery County Government.

AstraZeneca announced plans to build a new cell therapy discovery and development facility in Rockville, Maryland, US in February 2024. Credit: AstraZeneca/Business Wire.

UK-based biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca’s advanced manufacturing facility is located in Rockville, Maryland, US.

Announced in February 2024, the project boasts an investment of $300m (£223.95m). It was opened in May 2025 and is expected to generate more than 150 new highly skilled jobs.

The facility is designed to produce life-saving cell therapy platforms, which are essential for critical cancer trials and future commercial supply.

It expands the company’s manufacturing footprint in the US and accelerates the discovery and development of the next-generation cell therapy.

The expansion aligns with AstraZeneca’s broader strategy in oncology cell therapy, aiming to enhance the immune system’s T-cells to combat cancer more effectively.

It fortifies AstraZeneca’s global manufacturing and supply network, reinforcing its dedication to delivering innovative treatments to patients worldwide.

The facility is focused on the production of T-cell therapies to facilitate clinical trials globally and can potentially be expanded to cater to other disease areas in the future.

Location of AstraZeneca’s advanced manufacturing facility

AstraZeneca’s cell therapy manufacturing facility is situated at 9950 Medical Centre Drive within the Alexandria Centre^® for Life Science – Shady Grove mega campus in Rockville, Maryland.

The site has been leased to AstraZeneca by Alexandria Real Estate Equities. The UK-based pharmaceutical company has entered a 13-year lease agreement with Alexandria Real Estate Equities for the entire Class A+ facility, which is set to last until June 2036.

The Shady Grove campus comprises approximately 1.2 million rentable square footage (RSF) in operation and 807,000 RSF designated for future development, providing a scalable environment for companies.

Located less than five miles from one of AstraZeneca’s global research and development centres, the facility is strategically placed within the thriving life sciences corridor in Montgomery County, Maryland. With proximity to several universities, the life sciences ecosystem provides an attractive place for offering access to new and experienced talent.

AstraZeneca’s cell therapy manufacturing facility details

The 84,264ft² cell therapy facility is dedicated to the manufacturing of CAR-T cell therapies, supporting AstraZeneca’s global clinical trials in cancer treatment.

The site represents the latest investment in cell therapy for AstraZeneca following strategic partnerships and acquisitions, including those with Quell Therapeutics, AbelZeta, Cellectis and Neogene Therapeutics.

The Rockville site joins AstraZeneca’s extensive network of approximately 30 manufacturing and supply sites across 16 countries, which are either currently operational or under development.

Financing details from Maryland

The Maryland Department of Commerce provided a $500,000 conditional loan through the Advantage Maryland programme to support the project.

Montgomery County provided a $100,000 conditional grant from its Economic Development Fund. AstraZeneca is expected to be eligible for further incentives such as the More Jobs for Marylanders programme and the state’s Job Creation Tax Credit upon hiring new employees.

Advancements in AstraZeneca’s oncology cell therapy

AstraZeneca’s oncology cell therapy ambitions were significantly advanced with the acquisition of Neogene Therapeutics in November 2022. Subsequently, in June 2023, the company entered an agreement with Quell Therapeutics to develop engineered T-regulatory cell therapies for autoimmune diseases.

Collaborations with Cellectis in November 2023 furthered AstraZeneca’s objectives in cell therapy and genomic medicine.

The company’s portfolio in cell therapy is designed to enhance the immune system’s T-cells to more effectively combat cancer.

Research teams are exploring innovative approaches to target and arm CAR-Ts, aiming to improve their efficacy in solid tumours by countering the immune-suppressive tumour microenvironment.

AstraZeneca is developing next-generation cell therapies, potentially offering off-the-shelf patient-ready therapies developed from the cells of healthy donors.

It is also advancing with multiple armoured autologous chimeric antigen receptor therapies, including those targeting Glypican 3 in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Dunkin' opened its latest next generation restaurant in Derwood with a fresh design and a dedicated parking area for mobile pickups.

DERWOOD, MD — Dunkin' recently opened its latest next generation restaurant in Derwood. The new location opened Jan. 9 at 17700 Muncaster Road.

The new Dunkin' restaurant offers Derwood a firsthand look at what a news release called the company’s store of the future experience, with a modern design that provides a fresh, friendly, vibrant, and engaging environment. Complete with a new, warm interior color palette, the restaurant also offers atmospheric lighting, complimentary Wi-Fi, and an innovative tap system.

The 2,600-square-foot restaurant employs about 10 crew members and is open Monday to Saturday from 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.

With the addition of the Derwood location, franchisees Boris Lander and Jesse Luis of The Luis Group now operate 31 Dunkin' restaurants throughout Maryland.

Elements of the new restaurant experience at the Derwood location include:

“We're thrilled to open this Next Generation Dunkin’ in Derwood to give guests a fresh, welcoming place to enjoy their favorite coffee, drinks, and treats,” said Jesse Luis of The Luis Group in a news release. “We're all about making things easier for our guests and continuing to show up for the community with the quality and convenience people know and love at Dunkin’.”

Customers can follow Dunkin’ on social media (Instagram, X, TikTok, YouTube) and subscribe to the Dunkin’ blog to receive notifications at news.dunkindonuts.com/blog.

About Dunkin’

Dunkin’, founded in 1950, is the largest coffee and donuts brand in the United States, with more than 14,000 restaurants in nearly 40 global markets. Dunkin’ is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants. For more information, visit DunkinDonuts.com and InspireBrands.com.

Maryland officials said more than 500 jobs will be retained at the site, with new employment opportunities and additional business planned.

ROCKVILLE, MD — Samsung Biologics recently announced that it will open its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Montgomery County.

The South Korea-based biotechnology company plans to open the facility at GSK’s manufacturing site in Rockville, which it acquired for $280 million, according to the Maryland Department of Commerce.

“We are thrilled that Samsung Biologics has selected Maryland for their first U.S. manufacturing facility, a testament to our state’s leadership in life sciences, our highly-skilled workforce and the commitment of our private and public sector to advance patient health around the globe,” Gov. Wes Moore said in a statement.

The announcement follows a series of meetings held earlier this year between Moore, Maryland Commerce Secretary Harry Coker, and Samsung Biologics leadership during the governor’s international trade and investment mission to Japan and South Korea.

According to officials, the goal of the mission was to strengthen global partnerships and advance economic growth and workforce development across Maryland.

Headquartered in Seoul, Samsung Biologics is a subsidiary of Samsung Technology. At the Rockville facility, the company plans to expand its drug substance manufacturing capacity to meet growing global demand for medicines.

State officials said more than 500 jobs will be retained at the site, with new employment opportunities and additional business planned as Samsung moves into the space.

In a statement, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich called the project a "significant achievement" for the county.

"We proudly welcome Samsung Biologics to Montgomery County, Maryland, and anticipate their contribution in enhancing our economy, workforce, and status as a global life sciences hub," Elrich said.

Leading this shift is ARHT Home Solutions, a company that has redefined the local energy landscape by offering comprehensive solar services that prioritize long-term performance and customer education.

The transition toward renewable energy has moved from a futuristic concept to a practical home improvement priority for many Maryland residents. In the heart of Montgomery County, homeowners are increasingly seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprints while gaining independence from rising utility costs. Leading this shift is ARHT Home Solutions, a company that has redefined the local energy landscape by offering comprehensive solar services that prioritize long-term performance and customer education. By focusing on high-quality engineering and transparent communication, they have established themselves as a benchmark for excellence in the region.

The Evolution of Local Energy Solutions

For years, the adoption of solar energy was often slowed by complex jargon and opaque pricing structures. ARHT Home Solutions has worked to dismantle these barriers by streamlining the path to energy independence. Their approach involves a deep understanding of Maryland’s specific climate patterns and architectural styles. Whether a home features a traditional gabled roof or a modern flat design, the technical team ensures that every system is optimized for maximum sunlight capture. This dedication to precision has helped elevate the standard of living for residents in Derwood and Rockville, turning standard houses into efficient power plants.

Precision Engineering in Every Project

When it comes to solar services Derwood MD, the local geography requires a nuanced touch. The community is known for its beautiful landscapes and varied residential layouts, which means a "one-size-fits-all" model rarely suffices. ARHT Home Solutions utilizes advanced site assessment tools to analyze shading from nearby trees and the specific pitch of a roof. This data-driven strategy ensures that homeowners receive a realistic projection of their energy production. By focusing on the unique needs of Derwood residents, the company ensures that every kilowatt-hour generated contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective local grid.

Quality Materials and Longevity

The durability of a solar energy system is only as good as the components used and the skill of the technicians involved. ARHT Home Solutions emphasizes the use of Tier-1 equipment, ensuring that the hardware can withstand the humidity of Maryland summers and the weight of winter snow. Beyond the hardware, the company’s internal standards for craftsmanship ensure that every connection is secure and every panel is perfectly aligned. This commitment to quality minimizes the need for future repairs and maximizes the return on investment for the homeowner over the decades-long lifespan of the system.

Accessibility for Rockville Homeowners

The search for reliable solar services near me often leads Rockville residents to discover the importance of local expertise. Having a provider that understands the specific permitting processes and building codes of Montgomery County is invaluable. ARHT Home Solutions acts as a partner throughout the entire journey, from the initial consultation to the final inspection. Their familiarity with local regulations speeds up project timelines and reduces the administrative burden on the homeowner. This localized focus ensures that help is always nearby, fostering a sense of trust and community reliability that national providers often struggle to match.

The Importance of Professional Execution

A successful transition to renewable energy relies heavily on the quality of the initial setup. Proper Solar Panel Installation is a multi-faceted process that involves electrical expertise, roofing knowledge, and structural engineering. ARHT Home Solutions employs specialists who understand how to integrate solar arrays without compromising the integrity of the home's roof. By treating the roof and the solar system as a single, cohesive unit, they prevent common issues such as leaks or structural strain. This holistic view of home improvement is what sets them apart in a crowded marketplace.

Financial and Environmental Impact

Investing in solar technology provides a dual benefit: immediate environmental conservation and long-term financial stability. By generating their own electricity, homeowners can protect themselves against the volatility of the energy market. Furthermore, various state and federal incentives make the transition more affordable than ever. ARHT Home Solutions provides clarity on these financial aspects, helping clients navigate tax credits and solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs). This transparency ensures that the decision to switch to solar is based on sound financial logic and a clear understanding of the projected savings.

Future-Proofing the Maryland Home

As electric vehicles and smart home technologies become standard, the demand for residential electricity is expected to rise. ARHT Home Solutions is helping Derwood and Rockville residents future-proof their properties by installing systems that are scalable and compatible with modern energy storage solutions. By looking ahead to the next twenty years of energy consumption, they ensure that today’s installations will remain relevant and effective as technology continues to evolve.

Conclusion

ARHT Home Solutions has successfully positioned itself as a leader in the Maryland renewable energy sector by focusing on integrity and technical proficiency. By tailoring their approach to the specific needs of the Derwood and Rockville areas, they provide homeowners with a reliable path toward sustainability. For those looking to upgrade their energy infrastructure, ARHT Home Solutions offers the expertise and local knowledge necessary to ensure a seamless and highly beneficial transition to clean power.

Media ContactCompany Name: ARHT Home SolutionsEmail: Send EmailPhone: (301) 913-0650Address:15867 Crabbs Branch Way suite a City: DerwoodState: MDCountry: United StatesWebsite: https://arhthomesolutions.com/

ROCKVILLE, MD — Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse, an expanding churrasco-style restaurant, will debut in the mid-Atlantic region when its Rockville location opens to the public on Friday, Dec. 19.

The 7,000-square-foot indoor venue, located in the new Twinbrook Quarter development and the first Maryland location, will offer an immersive Gaúcho-style dining experience featuring the traditional flavors from southern Brazil.

Founded with the vision of bringing the best of Southern Brazil to the United States, Terra opened its first location in Jacksonville, Florida, in 2015. The Rockville restaurant marks Terra Gaucha’s sixth location.

Located at 1651 Chapman Avenue, Terra Gaucha Rockville offers a full-service bar, 200 seats, and three private dining rooms for groups and special occasions. It is open Monday through Sunday for lunch or brunch and dinner at various times.

The restaurant can be reached at (240) 833-8075 or online at rockville@terragaucha.net.

“We are excited to introduce Terra Gaucha’s authentic flavors to Rockville, one of the nation’s leading small cities,” said General Manager Marcos Bronca in a news release. “With its welcoming atmosphere, dynamic diversity and discerning diners, selecting Rockville as our first Mid-Atlantic location was the clear choice. We are confident Terra Gaucha will quickly become a well-loved destination in town.”

Terra Gaucha’s concept revolves around churrasco, a traditional grilling method using open flames and various cuts of meat. The restaurant roasts meats with authentic Gaúcho seasonings using a traditional grilling style. Each skewer is hand-selected butchered, and seasoned by chefs who have mastered the craft.

Terra Gaucha’s signature dining option is an unlimited price-fixed dining experience with fire-roasted meats carved tableside.

The crown jewel is the Picanha, a savory crescent-shaped prime cut of sirloin with a perfectly crafted fat cap that flavors the entire cut. Terra Gaucha’s meats includes bacon-wrapped chicken breasts, and beer marinated chicken drumsticks, grilled shrimp finished with a passionfruit and mango glaze, and wine-marinated pork.

The full dining experience also includes a gourmet hot and cold table showcasing more than 55 selections of fresh vegetables, fruits, salads, authentic Brazilian hot dishes, and imported meats and cheeses. Offerings include smoked salmon, seasonal lobster bisque, shrimp salad, and more. Desserts include Brazilian flan or a creme brulee. A full menu can be found here.

DINNER PRICINGEvery Night:Full Churrasco Experience $59.95Gourmet Hot and Cold Table $29.95Chicken & Seafood $44.95

BRUNCH PRICING:Saturday – Sunday:Full Churrasco Experience: $49.95Gourmet Hot and Cold table: $29.95Chicken and Seafood: $37.95

HOLIDAY PRICING*:Full Churrasco Experience:$59.95Gourmet Hot and Cold Table: $29.95*Holiday Pricing applies all day on major holidays

LUNCH PRICING:Monday – Friday:Full Churrasco Experience $39.95Gourmet Hot and Cold Table $19.95Chicken & Seafood $32.95

For more information or to book a reservation, please call (240) 833-8075 or visit https://terragaucha.com/location-rockville.