Merck KGaA ‘a top employer’

Merck KGaA has been named as a top employer by Science magazine, which placed the firm sixth out of 575 biotech and pharmaceutical firms when it comes to the overall treatment of its workforce.

This marks an improvement since 2008, when the publication placed Merck KGaA in seventh place, and an even more dramatic advance since 2007, when the company occupied the 17th position.

Doctor Bernhard Kirschbaum, executive vice-president, of research and development at the firm, said that the news is a great honour as the chart was compiled using input from industry insiders.

“It’s also a statement to the rest of the scientific community that Merck is an employer that offers a great working environment, the chance for professional development and an opportunity to help mankind,” he added.

Earlier this year, Merck KGaA chairman Karl-Ludwig Kley said that the firm wants to increase profit over the long term by establishing new business and making itself more “weather resistant” in the future.