Merck Sharp & Dohme launches new grant to promote careers in research

A new Research Experience Grant scheme, promoting pharmaceutical research careers among undergraduate students, has been launched by Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited (MSD), the UK subsidiary of one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies, Merck & Co.

Research and Development (r&d), and the people who support this, are central to MSD. The company believes that a long-term vision and substantial investment in r&d will enable talented scientists and technicians to remain at the forefront of pharmaceutical research and manufacturing.

  Launching the grants, David Storey, executive director, Pharmaceutical research & development at MSD, said: "Around half of all major medicines sold in the UK are developed in British laboratories. But with falling interest in science subjects and department closures in universities, the pharmaceutical industry has a role to play in continuing to support the development of the UK's research skills base."

  He continued: "This new grant has been launched today to encourage students to take their scientific studies further, as well as to highlight the many varied career opportunities which exist within the pharmaceutical industry."

The grants will provide academic institutions with an allowance, travel expenses and costs for consumables to enable undergraduate students to get involved in a pharmaceutical research project at their university laboratories during the Summer vacation. Applications for the grants are invited from permanent academic or postdoctoral staff in pharmaceutical industry related subjects at UK academic institutions. The scheme is competitive and the closing date for applications is 10 June 2005.

For further information on how to apply, the selection process and eligibility for the grants, an email should be sent to msdresearchgrant@merck.com.