
St. Louis, MO July 2025 MilliporeSigma, the U.S. life sciences division of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) to further advance scientific research and innovation. The partnership marks a significant step forward in their ongoing collaboration, which is focused on promoting sustainable scientific progress and accelerating the transition from lab discoveries to clinical applications.
Strengthening the Path to Innovation
The non-binding agreement outlines a shared commitment to support joint research initiatives, enhance technology scouting, and improve research availability. Both institutions aim to build a strong talent pipeline and ensure that life-saving therapies reach patients more efficiently.
Through this partnership, MilliporeSigma will provide access to its extensive portfolio of products, services, and technical expertise, enabling researchers to integrate these resources into their innovative work seamlessly. The collaboration also underscores MilliporeSigma’s commitment to supporting early-stage innovation by working with incubators and startups, offering resources that will help scale their growth.
Supporting St. Louis’ Innovation Ecosystem
MilliporeSigma’s long-standing investment in WashU has strengthened the region’s scientific capabilities. The company has been a prominent investor in WashU’s research programs, contributing over $250 million to the St. Louis area in the past five years. With nearly 2,300 employees at its St. Louis network of R&D and production sites, the company is a key player in the local innovation ecosystem.
The MOU further solidifies MilliporeSigma’s dedication to the St. Louis Innovation Ecosystem, reinforcing its mission to make a meaningful impact on global healthcare and science.
Leadership Perspectives
Jean-Charles Wirth, CEO of MilliporeSigma, commented:
“The academic and industry partnership is more complex than ever in today’s scientific landscape. Our collaboration with WashU is a reflection of our commitment to supporting the next generation of scientists and advancing life science and healthcare. By combining WashU’s exceptional research capabilities with our cutting-edge technologies, we can accelerate innovation and make a lasting impact.”
Andrew D. Martin, Chancellor of WashU, added:
“This agreement marks another milestone in the long-standing relationship between MilliporeSigma and WashU. This partnership is vital to advancing our university’s scientific research and offers new opportunities to address global challenges. Together, we’re expanding our potential to find solutions that will benefit communities around the world.”
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