Research and development

Novartis’ strategy is to provide premium quality innovative treatment which reflects the evolving needs of patients and the society all over the world. 

Our research focuses primarily on areas where modern medicine does not yet have the optimal treatment options. In that, Novartis combines scientific progress and clinical findings. The primary goal is to develop new treatments and to be the driving force of standardisation in the pharmaceutical industry.

Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) is a specialised division with a worldwide network of sites and about 6,000 professionals and medical doctors. NIBR develops and markets innovative treatments in a number of clinical areas.

Novartis’ USP is its focus on research and development. With an investment of USD 8.9 billion, which represents 18 percent of its net sales, the company was one of the main investors in new development of new drugs in 2015.

Novartis has more than 200 clinical research projects ongoing since 2013. The research of new molecules focuses, among other things, on the treatment of coronary heart disease, rheumatic conditions, skin conditions and multiple sclerosis. In its division Sandoz, Novartis develops the so-called biosimilars. (Immuno-)oncology is also an important area of our research focus. 

Development phases of clinical research between 2013 and 2017

30 new molecules + 22 new indications + 3 new drug forms