May 6, 2014

continuing expert reaction to news of possible Pfizer takeover of AstraZeneca

The story of Pfizer’s bid to take over AstraZeneca continues. 

Dr Mark Downs, Chief Executive of the Society of Biology, said:

“Whatever the outcome for Pfizer’s interests in AstraZeneca, the critical issue for UK science is the continuity of private sector R&D investment and retention of the skilled scientists needed for future growth in the pharma sector. The UK has historically been a world leader in drug development; both Government and the industry need to do more to ensure that remains true”.

Declared interests

Mark Downs is Chief Executive of the Society of Biology and trustee and vice-chair of the board of the Science Council. I sit on the General Committee of the British Science Association