Sanofi-Aventis is restructuring its R&D operation and plans to close eight of its 27 R&D sites. The new R&D model, which is expected to be in place by 2013, aims to group researchers in more productive structures, working more closely with academics and hospitals to help drive innovation. The company will focus on diabetes, cancer and age-related diseases as well as anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious diseases, according to Christian Lajoux, head of Sanofi-Aventis France.
Under the reorganization, four sites in France and sites in Britain, Japan, Spain and the U.S. will close. According to the company, there will be no layoffs at this time but a plan for voluntary departures is being considered. The company employs 13,000 people in R&D and administrative positions.
“The objective of this new R&D model is to propose innovative solutions that respond to specific, unmet needs of patients and continue our success in a very competitive international environment,” said Christopher A. Viehbacher, chief executive officer of Sanofi-Aventis. “It is centered on the real needs of patients, the development of scientific networks and openness toward outside entities to strengthen creativity, and a flexible and entrepreneurial approach to research.”
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