Fostering Research Synergies between Chemists in Swiss Academia and at Novartis

Abstract

We present a short overview of the way Novartis chemists interact and collaborate with the academic chemistry community in Switzerland. This article exemplifies a number of collaborations, and illustrates opportunities to foster research synergies between academic and industrial researchers. It also describes established programs available to academic groups, providing them access to Novartis resources and expertise.

A Collaborative Journey towards the Late‐Stage Functionalization of Added‐Value Chemicals Using Engineered Halogenases

“…Advantages of such academiaindustry collaborations are manyfold: collaborating with academia allows industrial partners to explore more speculative approaches and forward-looking solutions that could shape the future of chemical synthesis. [64] Furthermore, the industrial partners benefit by familiarizing themselves with state-of-the-art methods and access to fundamental research with long-term view, as well as gain visibility by publishing, while new challenges faced by industries on sustainability represent an opportunity for academics to develop new concepts and methods. Finally, the collaborative environment provides students with early insights into industrial setting and companies with opportunities to develop future talent.…”

“…The high concentration of chemical industries and universities in Switzerland provides a favorable environment for this type of innovation‐fostering collaborations as being able to exchange face‐to‐face helps reinforcing links between the different partners involved. Advantages of such academia‐industry collaborations are manyfold: collaborating with academia allows industrial partners to explore more speculative approaches and forward‐looking solutions that could shape the future of chemical synthesis [64] . Furthermore, the industrial partners benefit by familiarizing themselves with state‐of‐the‐art methods and access to fundamental research with long‐term view, as well as gain visibility by publishing, while new challenges faced by industries on sustainability represent an opportunity for academics to develop new concepts and methods.…”

Perspectives and Opportunities in Medicinal Chemistry: A View from the Novartis Institute for BioMedical Research Institute in Basel, Switzerland

“…Opportunities related to collaborations with academic partners in Switzerland were discussed recently. [13] They are not the only source of external innovation for Novartis and other pharmaceutical companies, which look for innovative techniques, targets and drug candidates worldwide. Indeed, collaborations between academic centres, small and large pharmaceutical companies create a number of mutual benefits.…”