Prof. Otmar Wiestler, Chairman and Scientific Director of DKFZ (left), and Dr. Wolfgang Plischke, member of the Board of Management of Bayer AG, responsible for Innovation, Technology, and Environment, signing the cooperation agreement | © dkfz.de

In 2008, DKFZ and Bayer Schering Pharma (BSP) entered into a strategic alliance in the field of oncologic drug discovery and development. This cooperation is intended to foster and to expedite translation of research findings into therapeutic development and/or medical applications. To reach this goal, the partners give dedicated support to projects which are in the transition from basic research to early drug discovery or development. The cooperation involves shared financing of joint projects: each partner contributes approximately one million Euros per year. Financial terms, confidentiality issues, the treatment of intellectual property rights and the commercial exploitation of joint findings are covered by a detailed framework agreement. As a consequence, scientists on both sides do not have to worry about these issues, which leaves them free to concentrate on their scientific work. In addition, fee-for-service projects, exclusively funded by BSP, may be initiated.

To initiate joint translational projects, the partnership also supports the exchange of ideas and promotes personal contacts between DKFZ and BSP employees. Mutual visits or joint organisation of scientific conferences are examples of scientific exchange and dialogue. Once a joint project has been started, there is intense cooperation in the form of project meetings and joint completion of the project plan. Depending on the project plan, a temporary research stay at Bayer Schering Pharma in Berlin or Wuppertal can be envisaged.

The alliance is managed by two joint committees with equal representation of DKFZ and BSP members. They decide on project selection, funding, and duration of projects. Joint decision making ensures that only those projects are funded that include scientific questions and promises for pharmaceutical development, and as such are interesting to follow-up for both sides.

Contact: Dr. Ruth Wellenreuther (phone ++49 (0)6221 42 2650, r.wellenreuther@dkfz.de).