evonik
The logo of German chemical company Evonik Industries is pictured at a factory in Darmstadt. Reuters

Germany-based specialty chemicals maker Evonik on Thursday said it will build its first research hub in Singapore.

The research hub, which is expected to start operations in 2018, will act as the Asian platform for high impact research and development with a special focus on Functional Surfaces and Additive Manufacturing, the company said in a statement.

In its first development stage, the new complex will offer around 50 jobs at the location.

The development of the research hub is also supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), which has been the company's strategic partner in facilitating and growing its presence in Singapore over the past years.

"Evonik's choice of Singapore as the location for this research hub is a statement of confidence in our research capability and availability of skilled talent," said Beh Swan Gin, Chairman of EDB.

The research hub will be situated in Biopolis, the centre for entrepreneurial and groundbreaking R&D activities in Singapore.