History

“We try never to forget that medicine is for the people. It is not for the profits.”

– George Merck

For over 130 years we have brought hope to humanity through the discovery and development of important medicines and vaccines.

Our legacy of invention began more than a century ago and continues today. Learn more about our company’s rich heritage here:

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We have a presence in the UK which goes back almost a century – and we are committed to continuing to build on that heritage.

Our clinical research and pathway partnerships with the NHS help our innovative medicines and vaccines to transform patient lives in the UK.

We believe in the UK’s role at the forefront of developing science, and MSD continues to be an integral part of the research community here, working with the Government, key agencies and the NHS to deliver on the Health and Growth missions, through implementation of the Life Sciences Sector Plan and the 10-year Health Plan.

Our Pioneers

Our UK scientists were among the first to develop medicines to treat hypertension, HIV and Hepatitis C amongst others, and we are committed to studying Alzheimer’s disease and addressing health issues such as antimicrobial resistance.

Many pioneers at MSD across the globe have led the way, including legendary scientists :

  • Maurice Hilleman who helped develop more than 40 human and animal vaccines
  • Nobel Prize winner Bill Campbell who together with Dr Mohammed Aziz and others championed the discovery and development of a treatment for river blindness that is being distributed throughout the developing world still today

Of MSD’s human medicines, eight were developed here in the UK.

GB-NON-12446 | December 2025