Integrating Academic Laboratories Into Pharmaceutical Development

Historically, there has been somewhat of an arm's-length relationship between researchers in academic medical centers and pharmaceutical companies. However, this attitude has undergone a major change over the past three decades and academicians have taken an entrepreneurial approach through the formation of biotech firms. This article discusses the history and development of strong ties between academic scientists and the pharmaceutical industry, including potential pitfalls associated with this association. Keywords: pharmaceutical companies; academicians; scientists; biotech companies; research collaborations