Even as it whittles down research operations in the U.S. and Europe, Pfizer ($PFE) is laying the groundwork for a new generation of Chinese scientists to advance its R&D. In another piece on Western drugmakers' research drives in the country, China Daily covers Pfizer pro Tan Lingshi's work to recruit Chinese scientists for his employer's growing research operations in the rising superpower.
"There are a lot of young, energetic people in China. Being a good scientist continues to be an honorable dream for them. For Pfizer to maintain its comparative advantage, we cannot afford to be behind in reaching out to this generation of scientists," Tan told the newspaper. "There are a lot of trainable talents and workforce in R&D in China for pharmaceutical companies. We brought a global R&D platform to China so that local talents can be developed," he added.
Pfizer has a lot of company among U.S. and European drugmakers that have set up Chinese R&D shops. And these companies are looking beyond the obvious commercial opportunity to ratchet up sales in China and tapping researchers who can help drive new scientific discoveries. Many of these Chinese scientists have been trained overseas and have decided to return to their native country.
In addition, Pfizer is working with Fudan University in Shanghai on a joint graduate program in clinical research; the company has helped craft the curriculum and has its own employees teach most of the courses, Tan told China Daily. This strategy should help Pfizer get its pick of fresh research talent in the Chinese market.
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