Roche sets up international fellowship programme

Roche has announced the establishment of the international Roche Postdoc Fellowship programme (RPF) which aims to systematically encourage outstanding research where industry and academia meet.

The initiative will support young scientists involved in cooperative research and development projects between academic institution and Roche through the provision of grants for periods of up to four years.

Up to 100 postdoctoral fellowships will be awarded in a number of scientific areas during the first two ears of the programme and it will be expanded into a broad-based international platform to promote scientific excellence in the long term.

Roche reports the RPF will aim to nurture development of innovative specialist knowledge, creative talent and new ideas as well as strengthening the international scientific exchange.

Dr Rene Imhof, designated head of the programme, said: “We believe firmly that in setting up this programme we are making an important contribution to scientific excellence at international level and staying true to our principle of encouraging outstanding young talent and groundbreaking research.”

He added that the company intends to channel the positive momentum gained through the Roche Research Foundation into a broader programme to continue its success.

In April 2008, Roche acquired privately-owned biotechnology firm Piramed, gaining access to an important oncology target.