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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