Merck, Harvard forge research agreement

Merck and Harvard Medical School have signed an agreement to jointly advance research programs in two core areas--oncology and central nervous system disorders. Financial details were not disclosed. The pharma and university giants say the deal is unique because:

• Merck is funding six HMS labs, enabling the advancement of a broad range of projects
• Researchers from both sides will work closely together
• HMS and Merck are located within walking distance of each other in Boston, which will further enable a close partnership.

Universities are playing an increasingly important role in drug development: A recent worldwide analysis of biotech patents found that universities and public research institutions play the leading role in drug discovery.

- see Harvard's release

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