A California real-estate firm plans to build a $13.5 million agricultural technology research center near Research Triangle Park, designed to bolster the state's reputation as a hub in the industry.

Alexandria Real Estate Equities' 50,000-square-foot Alexandria Ag-Tech Center and greenhouse are scheduled to open for business next summer. They will help emerging ag-tech companies develop new products, such as drought-resistant crops or medications extracted from plant materials.

The incubator is expected to provide jobs to 30-40 scientists, but Alexandria officials did not announce tenants for their planned facility. The building will house an 18,000-square-foot greenhouse.