Schering-Plough Expanding Discovery Operations in Cambridge, MA
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Schering-Plough Corporation has announced a new scientific research facility in Cambridge that will support the company's work discovering and developing therapeutic treatments.
"This new facility is another demonstration of our long-term commitment to research-based health innovation," said Fred Hassan, Schering-Plough chairman and chief executive officer.
"It also is evidence of our growing engagement in the science community of Cambridge, which with neighboring Boston has become one of the world's premier research hubs for life science discoveries."
"This kind of investment in discovery research is an engine of innovation at Schering-Plough for improved health for patients for the future."
The laboratory facility provides capacity for approximately 200 scientists and support staff, up from about 80 at the prior Cambridge location, and triples the amount of laboratory space.
Focusing on the early stages of the drug discovery process, SPRI Cambridge conducts research to develop a portfolio of small molecule drugs and provide efficiency in lead discovery through the use of proprietary affinity-based screening technologies and an integrated chemistry library.
"The greater Boston area is a vibrant and stimulating scientific environment," said Thomas D. Koestler, Ph.D., executive vice president, Schering-Plough Corporation and president, SPRI.
"Our SPRI scientists benefit from the proximity of major academic institutions and leading biotechnology companies based nearby."
"SPRI Cambridge, along with our research facilities in New Jersey and California, is part of an integrated drug discovery organization that is developing an important pipeline of potential new medicines."
Schering-Plough has had research operations in Cambridge since February 2005, when it acquired most of the assets of NeoGenesis Pharmaceuticals Inc. and integrated the group into SPRI.
Approximately 80 SPRI colleagues previously worked at 840 Memorial Drive in Cambridge and have now relocated to the new site at 320 Bent Street.
The company plans to increase its Cambridge scientific headcount primarily through recruiting efforts.
