MSD unveils state-of-the-art laboratory facility at the Francis Crick Institute
September 2024
We have officially opened our interim laboratory facility housed in the roof space of The Francis Crick Institute, marking an exciting milestone in the growth of our discovery presence in London, and our ongoing collaboration with this world-renowned research centre.
George Addona, Senior Vice President of MSD Research Labs, and Sir Paul Nurse, CEO of The Francis Crick Institute, welcomed Lord Vallance KCB FRS FMedSci FRCP HonFREng, Minister of State for Science, at the opening ceremony held on 5th September. Together, we celebrated our collective drive towards groundbreaking discovery science that advances human health.
Located at the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter, this is the latest addition to MSD’s integrated global R&D network, that is dedicated to seeking solutions to some of the most complex health challenges faced by patients around the world.
This latest location will foster an effective partnership between our scientists and their counterparts at the Crick, working side-by-side towards the common goal of scientific innovation. The space is leased for an initial period of 3 years in preparation for the 2027 opening of our new MSD Research Laboratories, London and UK Headquarters, in Kings Cross.
The opening of SkyLab, with the central London location offering valuable proximity to the capital’s Knowledge Quarter, builds on MSD’s 100-year heritage in the UK. The new facility will accommodate approximately 50 MSD researchers, who join MSD’s rapidly expanding interdisciplinary London-based team of over 100 scientists with expertise spanning chemistry, pharmacology, neuroscience, and immunology, to unlock new frontiers in early-stage drug discovery.
MSD’s commitment to operating responsibly is evident in the design and construction of this 11,800 sqft facility, which adheres to the highest sustainability standards. Ensuring environmental stewardship is at the heart of MSD’s wider R&D presence reflects our mission for a safe and healthy future for people and communities.
These developments represent another addition to our discovery capabilities as we continue to expand our R&D footprint in the UK and Europe, in anticipation of the opening of our new London home in 2027.
Lord Vallance, Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation, commented:
“The opening of Skylab represents a fantastic opportunity to advance UK science and is a vote of confidence in the UK as an investment destination”
George Addona, Senior Vice President and Head of Discovery, Preclinical and Translational Medicine, MSD Research Laboratories, commented:
“Our talented team of London-based discovery scientists are an integral part of MSD’s global research network, and we are pleased to expand our research presence in London’s Knowledge Quarter.”
GB-NON-10053 | September 2024