Advanced Micro Devices said on Thursday the formation of a new research lab that will focus on technology and platform development beyond the five-year time horizon.

The new Advanced Architecture and Technology Lab - to open in Redmond Wash. - will be led by Rich Witek, AMD corporate fellow and chief architectural officer.

With the help of Rich Witek and some of the brightest minds in the Pacific Northwest, AMD is furthering our advanced development work, said Phil Hester, AMD senior vice president and chief technology officer.

The new lab will spearhead ongoing innovation in design, software planning, system structures and chip architectures, the company said.

AMD plans to gradually increase the staff to between 30 and 40 people and is looking into opportunities to open in other global tech hubs. A

Shares of AMD were flat at $20.95 in mid day trading on Friday on the New York Stock Exchange.