Wyeth Pharmaceuticals and Crucell announce vaccine development

A division of Wyeth has entered into a vaccine development agreement with Crucell, a Dutch biotechnology company, it was announced today.

Crucell will be responsible for certain components that are used by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals in clinical studies for a vaccine.

This includes the development and manufacture of such components, which will take place in a “dedicated” vaccine production facility in Bern, Switzerland.

No financial details of the deal were disclosed, although Wyeth will take responsibility for the vaccine’s clinical development.

Meanwhile, Wyeth announced last week a change to its financial organisation, with John C Kelly named as the group’s new controller.

Mr Kelly joined in 2002 and has performed various roles within the company. He will also take on the position of vice-president and replace Paul J Jones, who had worked for the Wyeth for 30 years and served as controller and vice-president for 13.