At Merck, we believe government support for basic biomedical research plays an essential role in advancing knowledge and innovation in science and medicine. Basic research is often theoretical or exploratory but helps provide a general understanding about disease. Researchers in the pharmaceutical industry learn from the fundamental knowledge uncovered by basic researchers and apply it to their targeted search for new medicines. Merck also invests in basic research.
In May 2001, Merck acquired Rosetta Inpharmatics, to develop and implement technologies that will improve drug discovery. The Company's leading-edge genomic research and data analysis focuses on how medical compounds affect biology, enabling a more accurate selection of drug targets and more efficient drug development.
In the United States, support for substantially increasing the budget for basic research, not just at the National Institute of Health but at the National Science Foundation and other government agencies that conduct health-related research, is strong among government leaders, elected officials and the public. This culture, strong since the turn of the century has led to a critically important network of innovation that Merck supports and in which it is an active participant.
To learn more about Merck's commitment to science, innovation and quality, click on the links below:
