State officials announced Dec. 9 that the diagnostic reagent and equipment manufacturer will invest $7 million to renovate an existing structure into a 33,180-square-foot administrative, distribution, sales and manufacturing facility.

Randox said it expects to fill 50 scientific, sales and manufacturing positions when the site becomes operational in February.

"In selecting a site for our East Coast office, we carefully evaluated locations in many states," said Peter FitzGerald, Randox president.

"Proximity to key markets was essential. Coupled with the support we found from all levels of government, we found West Virginia to be our top choice.

"Randox has invested $150 million of our resources into developing the world's most revolutionary diagnostic technology -- Biochip and Evidence -- and we believe with its pioneering spirit of the people of West Virginia we can manufacture and develop more life changing diagnostic products. We look forward to a long and productive partnership."

Randox manufactures diagnostic kits used for biochemistry laboratories and in virology and endocrinology. Its products can be found in countries around the world. Randox has sales and distribution agreements in 130 countries and is directly represented in 27 others.

"West Virginia is proud that Randox Laboratories, a world-class health care technology firm, chose to locate its new center here," Gov. Joe Manchin said.

"West Virginia has a skilled work force, strong science sector and great business climate that attracts great partners such as Randox and brings quality jobs to our state."

FitzGerald founded the privately held company in 1982, state officials said.