Research & development

Four beakers with solutions and a hand is picking up one beaker

Bold science

happens here

Every day we aim to advance the understanding of disease to help people have a chance at better health.
Microscope icon

Called to discover,

driven to deliver

Addressing complex medical challenges requires persistence and a strong focus on science. Our research and development approach is based on applying rigorous scientific principles to deepen understanding of disease and to support the discovery and development of new medicines.

For 150+ years, our research and development activities have contributed to the development of medicines across a range of disease areas.

Our momentum continues.

From discovery through to the delivery of medicines, we are advancing scientific innovation with a clear focus on meaningful progress.

~50

New medicine candidates in clinical development or under regulatory review

~6 years

We aim to reduce medicine development time to around six years, from first testing in people to launch
Hands holding scientific equipment

From bold ideas
to treatments

Meaningful scientific progress requires sustained effort and careful evaluation. We continue to explore potential approaches for diseases that are difficult to treat, including areas where the underlying science is complex. Our R&D work focuses on identifying and investigating drug targets based on available scientific evidence, with the aim of advancing understanding and supporting future innovation. With a significant proportion of our workforce engaged in research and development, we focus on maintaining high standards of quality and safety throughout the development process.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Discover more about our
science and innovation

CMAT-06499 May 2026