A global software company specializing in cyber protection opened a research and development center in Tempe this week. 

With dual headquarters in Switzerland and Singapore, Acronis has offices worldwide. The Tempe office at Washington Street and Priest Drive will focus on research and development. Over the next three years, Acronis said it will invest $50 million to fuel advances in blockchain, machine learning and cyber protection. 

When fully staffed, the Tempe center is expected to employ 150 engineering, sales and support personnel. In a news release, Acronis said the Tempe office will help the company build stronger partnerships with North American cloud providers, software vendors and others.

Acronis said it plans to work closely with Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. Other companies have mentioned the pool of engineers from local universities as being a factor in choosing to expand or move to Arizona.