Merck, a prominent science and technology company, has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). This academia-industry collaboration aims to enhance South Korea's research and development ecosystem for industrial applications.
Matthias Heinzel, Member of the Executive Board of Merck and CEO of Life Science emphasized the significance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with KAIST is a crucial step in accelerating the biotechnology ramp-up for both the local and global life science industry. Advancing research and training the next generation of scientists is essential for discovering new medicines to address global health needs. This is how we impact life and health with science.”
The partnership will involve various initiatives, including the Curious Future Insight Conference, fellowships for graduate students, and awards for professors. Additionally, Merck and KAIST will establish an experience lab in Korea. This lab will support researchers in honing their skills for developing new application notes and scientific workflows in fields such as material analysis, drug discovery, and omics solutions. A research partnership will also be created to facilitate joint R&D collaboration, focusing on innovation in prioritized research areas.
Kwang-Hyung Lee, President of KAIST, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: "We are delighted that Merck and KAIST, which share an innovation mindset and a vision for scientific advancement, will work closely together. We see this partnership as an opportunity to strengthen the connection between Merck's life science business and the global scientific community."
Merck has been operating in Korea for 30 years, making several strategic investments to support the region's biopharmaceutical industry. In March, the company announced a €300 million investment to construct a new bioprocessing production facility in Daejeon.
