A new chapter is beginning for around 850 of our employees: at our new headquarters in Lucerne’s Rösslimatt district, colleagues from three Lucerne offices are coming together under one roof. We are excited to begin this new phase together!
Rösslimatt district near Lucerne railway station
Located close to Lake Lucerne, the city center and key transport hubs, our new site brings together colleagues from our previous offices in Lucerne-Citybay, Kriens and Tribschen in a shared working environment for the first time.
Designed for our employees
At MSD, we believe that teams work best in an environment that encourages collaboration while also providing space for focused work.
Our new headquarters has been designed to support different ways of working throughout the day. In addition to open areas for exchange and collaboration, there are also quiet zones for concentrated work.
There are also thoughtfully designed spaces for breaks, spontaneous conversations with colleagues, or engaging in movement.
Collaboration that enables innovation
The new building will bring our teams closer together. We will work more closely with one another, exchange ideas more frequently in our daily work, and share knowledge faster. This will enable the generation of new ideas and will make cross-functional collaboration easier.
The “One Roof” concept creates a space for creativity, scientific excellence and strong collaboration, while strengthening MSD’s ability to align innovation and research with the greatest possible benefit for patients and to develop solutions for previously unmet medical needs.
Sustainably built and certified
The new headquarters in Rösslimatt supports our goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. In line with all MSD buildings in Switzerland, the new headquarters in Lucerne is powered by renewable energy.
Our MSD sites in Schachen and Zurich
MSD-site Schachen, Lucerne
More than 400 specialist employees from around the world work at the Schachen site on the development and testing of innovative biological medicines. From here, medicines for clinical trials are also exported worldwide, and one of only three global laboratories dedicated to investigating counterfeit medicines is operated.
Since 2021, around 250 employees have been working at The Circle at Zurich Airport to advance research, data generation, and the development of new medicines and vaccines. Teams from Medical Affairs, Clinical Development, Market Access and Marketing Operations drive important projects for MSD in Switzerland and around the world.
Sustainability at MSD Switzerland – more than just a promise
At MSD Switzerland, sustainability is not just a buzzword, but an integral part of how we do business. Our Sustainability Summary shows how we take responsibility for the environment, our employees, and society.
16.03.2026
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How we enact sustainability is evident in several areas of activity.
Access to healthcare is a key concern for us. In collaboration with health authorities, research institutions, and patient organizations, we help people better understand health-related topics and access the care they need.
Our support for important initiatives such as PINK CUBE Test Your Breast to strengthen breast cancer prevention and early detection, as well as our Patient Sounding Board, demonstrate how effective collaboration and partnerships can be.
Another priority is our responsibility for the environment. In addition to our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint, we have pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045. Our sites – including our new headquarters in the Rösslimatt district of Lucerne – are energy-efficient and powered by renewable energy.
At MSD Switzerland, our employees are at the heart of our corporate culture. While we continuously work to advance innovation for patients, we also place great importance on employee development and well-being. Our diverse and dedicated workforce shapes our culture.
Initiatives such as employee networks and wellbeing programs promote inclusion and satisfaction. Policies such as our gender-neutral parental leave also contribute to equality.
Our strong ethics and compliance framework is closely linked to our approach to sustainability. Psychological safety and ethical integrity shape our everyday work. With a speak-up culture, trained ethics ambassadors, and awareness campaigns, we live our values within the company. Transparent and responsible leadership is also an important part of our sustainability strategy.
More information and the full sustainability overview can be found here.
CH-NON-03273, 03/2026
Diversity and Inclusion
As one of the leading research-based pharmaceutical companies, we are committed to the health of all people, regardless of gender, age, background, or sexual orientation. We support diversity and inclusion both inside and outside of MSD. That is why we are involved in various initiatives and projects that focus on people.
MSD tradition of Diversity
Diversity and Inclusion are not mere words for us – they embody the reason we are able to realize our corporate purpose: We harness the power of cutting-edge research to save and improve lives around the world.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion at MSD
At MSD, we are absolutely certain that diverse teams enjoy a higher level of success. This is the reason why we have actively supported diversity and inclusion for a long time.
In addition, our employees are involved in numerous EBRGs (Employee Business Resource Groups), which guard the interests of various groups within the company. For example, our Rainbow Alliance represents LGBTQIA+ colleagues.
At MSD, we believe that a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and recognized is essential to share success. Every June, to celebrate Pride Month, we color our logo in the vibrant rainbow colors that symbolize unity, love, and acceptance within the LGBTQIA+ community.
MSD as an employer
Would you like to work with us to further develop our medicines and healthcare solutions, to continuously improve medical care and to bring inspiration to new generations? Become part of our team!
In October we support Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know breast cancer is the most common cancer in women? At MSD, we show solidarity with those facing breast cancer and do everything we can to support further advances to help fighting the disease. Especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month October we support various activities to educate about the importance of prevention and early detection. Learn more about our commitment.
30.10.2025
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In Switzerland, around 6,600 women and 60 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Although new therapies have improved the prognosis of patients with breast cancer, around 1400 women still die from the disease in Switzerland every year.
“We stand united for the mothers, sisters, daughters and loved ones impacted by breast cancer and do everything we can to drive further innovation to help save and improve lives.”
As with many other cancers, the earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances of a cure. That’s why we support various initiatives to raise awareness!
Awareness campaign in the Pink Cube
In October, we are supporting the awareness campaign “PINK CUBE Test Your Breast” together with EUROPA DONNA Switzerland, the Swiss Cancer League, and many other sponsors.
The pink container “Pink Cube” travels through 11 cantons, where gynecologists will offer interested visitors free consultations and breast examinations. Everyone is invited to visit the Pink Cube.
Our patient portal, MSD Gesundheit, contains detailed information about breast cancer, including risks and options for prevention, early detection and treatment of breast cancer.
In addition, the website offers answers to the most frequently asked questions about breast cancer and information on where affected people can get advice and support.
A special moment for us! Every year, more than 50 colleagues take part in the Pink Ribbon Charity Walk as Team MSD Switzerland.
The solidarity walk celebrates survivors, remembers those that we have lost, raises awareness, and much-needed funds to work towards the vision of zero deaths from breast cancer.
Facts about breast cancer you should know
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, accounting for nearly one-third of all cancer diagnoses. In Switzerland, about 6,600 women and 60 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and around 1,400 women die from it each year. The rate of disease increases with age. Nevertheless, one in five women is younger than 50 at the time of diagnosis. Mammography is the most important examination for the early detection of breast cancer. It can reveal a tumor before it can be felt or causes any symptoms. Medical societies and the Cancer League recommend that women aged 50 and over have a mammogram every two years. Regular self-examination of the breasts also helps women become more familiar with their bodies and notice any changes that should be checked by a doctor.
The earlier breast cancer is detected and treated, the better the chances of cure. That’s the message we want to get across to everyone!
About our clinical research in Oncology
Did you know that MSD operates one of the world’s largest and fastest growing clinical research programs in oncology? It currently includes more than 1,600 clinical trials. Switzerland is part of this research program. Our team currently coordinates 36 clinical trials in different tumor types (as of 10/2025). MSD is also one of the leading companies in the research of vaccines against preventable diseases, such as cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers. In Switzerland, we collaborate with various partners to advance innovative solutions in cancer treatment. In recent years, we have made an important contribution to improving treatment options for cancer patients.
Do you know diseases that vaccination can help to prevent? Here you can find out more.
30.10.2025
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Vaccinations can protect us from disease by making our bodies immune in an intelligent way: they introduce substances into the body, such as a virus or bacterial component, that trick the immune system into thinking there is an infection. This prompts the body’s immune system to produce antibodies and activates an immune memory that can protect the body when it is confronted with the actual infection. This immunity can last for years, decades, or even a lifetime after vaccination.
The following overview shows some diseases and infections that vaccination can help to prevent (as of October 2025):
01.
Human papillomaviruses
Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are widespread. To date, more than 200 types of the virus are known. A distinction is made between high-risk and low-risk HPV types. The latter can cause genital warts in women and men. These are harmless but rather unsightly and annoying skin changes (nodules) in the genital area. The high-risk types can trigger forms of cancer in women and men, such as cervical cancer or vaginal, penile, anal, and throat cancers.
02.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is an inflammation of the liver (jaundice), which is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The virus is transmitted via the blood or body fluids of an infected person (e.g. sexual intercourse). Hepatitis B is highly contagious. The infection is considered to be chronic if the virus is in the blood for longer than six months. WHO estimates that two billion people are infected by the hepatitis B (HBV) virus worldwide. 257 million of these are already chronically ill; over 880,000 people die every year as a result. In Switzerland, about 62,000 people live with hepatitis B.
03.
Pneumococcal Disease (PD)
PD is caused by a bacterium called Streptococcus pneumoniae, also known as pneumococcus. Pneumococcal diseases occur sporadically worldwide – outbreaks are rare. Several million people are affected each year and over one million of them die, many despite timely antibiotic treatment. The burden of disease is particularly high for infants under 2 years of age,among those aged 65 years and older and people of all ages with chronic conditions such as chronic heart disease or chronic respiratory disease. In Switzerland, there are about 1000 severe pneumococcal infections per year, mostly pneumonia, less frequently blood poisoning or meningitis. Children under two years of age and persons over 65 years of age are mainly affected. A total of around 100 people die each year, of whom around 80% are over 65 years of age.
04.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is an infectious disease caused by the highly contagious varicella zoster virus (VZV). The virus causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness and fever. Chickenpox is most common in children but anyone who has not had chickenpox can get the disease.
05.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can occur at any age. It begins with fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, photophobia, inflammation of the oral mucosa and is often accompanied by cough, colds and sore throat. Uncomplicated cases heal quite quickly and without permanent consequences. However, there is a risk of complications such as brain inflammation (encephalitis; 1 per 1000 cases), pneumonia (measles pneumonia; 10 to 60 per 1000 cases) or middle ear inflammation (otitis media). Sometimes measles complications lead to death.
06.
Mumps
Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus. It typically starts with headache, discomfort and fever, followed by the characteristic swelling of the parotid glands. Mumps is generally a mild children’s disease that mainly affects children between the ages of five and nine. However, adults can also become infected with mumps, which can be associated with serious complications.
07.
Rubella
Rubella is a contagious, generally mild viral infection that occurs most often in children and young adults. While the illness is generally mild in children, it has serious consequences in pregnant women causing fetal death or congenital defects known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). The rubella virus is transmitted by airborne droplets when infected people sneeze or cough. Humans are the only known host.
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. A month dedicated to those affected and to raising public awareness about the causes, early detection and prevention of the disease. Did you know lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide? At MSD, we are committed to fighting lung cancer and improving cancer care. Learn how we support Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
29.10.2025
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In Switzerland around 4,900 people are diagnosed with lung cancer every year and about 3,300 die from it. Almost all new patients are over 50 years of age at the time of diagnosis. Most lung cancers do not cause any symptoms until they have spread. Therefore, they are often diagnosed at a late stage. If the cancer has already spread outside the lungs, the prognosis for patients is very poor. But because of new effective treatments, this is changing. Many people think a lung cancer diagnosis is a death sentence. However, over the past decade, new advancements have been made, which have led to more survivors and more hope for those facing the disease.
“At MSD, we show solidarity for those affected and continue to push for progress in cancer care.”
Despite how common lung cancer is, there are still many misconceptions about the disease. That’s why we support various initiatives to raise awareness!
Website for lung cancer patients
The website on the MSD Patient Portal provides detailed information on the main types of lung cancer, diagnosis and treatment options, answers to the most frequent questions and information on where patients can get advice and support. In addition, lung cancer patients can download various checklists with questions to help them prepare for their next doctor’s appointment.
Many lung diseases develop unnoticed – early detection can make a decisive difference. Prevention begins with education. That is why MSD supports LuftiBus and LUNGE Zurich – in 2025 as main sponsor. Visitors to the LuftiBus can learn about respiratory diseases, early detection, and lung health, and lung health, and have a free lung check. At MSD, we are proud to support this initiative as a sponsor, because prevention is a key contribution to promoting health.
Online lung check
In many cases, lung cancer is only discovered at an advanced stage. This may be because the signs and symptoms are also typical of other diseases and are not immediately associated with lung cancer.
Do you know the symptoms of lung cancer? Do you have symptoms that you should have checked out by a doctor?
Lung cancer is the third most common type of cancer in Switzerland. Around 4,900 people are newly diagnosed with it every year, around 3,300 die of it every year. While anyone can get lung cancer, your risk goes up if you are over 50 years old and currently smoke or smoked in the past. Not smoking is the most important measure to prevent lung cancer.
Lung cancer is not a death sentence. There are several treatment options, but early detection is key and can save lives. If you have an unexplained, persistent cough lasting more than three weeks or shortness of breath, visit your doctor!
About our clinical research in Oncology
Did you know that MSD operates one of the world’s largest and fastest growing clinical research programs in oncology? It currently includes more than 1,600 clinical trials. Switzerland is part of this research program. Our team currently coordinates 36 clinical trials in different tumor types (as of 07/2025). MSD is also one of the leading companies in the research of vaccines against preventable diseases, such as cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers. In Switzerland, we collaborate with various partners to advance innovative solutions in cancer treatment. In recent years, we have made an important contribution to improving treatment options for cancer patients.
MSD Switzerland once again awarded with the Swiss LGBTI-Label
For the fourth time in a row, MSD Switzerland has been awarded the Swiss LGBTI-Label, a certification given to companies and organizations with an open, inclusive, and appreciative corporate culture.
18.06.2025
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What does the Swiss LGBTI-Label mean?
The Swiss LGBTI-Label is a seal of quality for organizations based in Switzerland, or Swiss organizations that work for the internal equality of LGBTI persons.
LGBTI means persons who differ from the majority of the population in their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Diversity as a lived reality
At MSD Switzerland, diversity is not a short-term goal, but a central part of our corporate culture. We firmly believe that only a work environment in which all employees—regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or physical characteristics—feel safe and respected can foster innovation and sustainable business success.
Swiss LGBTI Label – a sign of equality in practice
The Swiss LGBTI Label was developed by the networks Network (Gay Leadership) and Wybernet (Gay Professional Women), in close collaboration with Transgender Network Switzerland, Pink Cross, LOS– Lesbenorganisation Schweiz and Rainbow Families.
The label is awarded based on a structured assessment process that takes into account factors such as organizational culture, leadership principles, HR processes, and internal communication.
Recertification takes place at regular intervals and confirms the company’s ongoing commitment.
Together for greater visibility
At MSD Switzerland, we are proud to once again hold the Swiss LGBTI-Label – as an expression of our belief that an inclusive workplace benefits everyone: our employees, our company, and society as a whole.
Dr. Maurice Hilleman: “The father of modern vaccines”
25.05.2025
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Vaccines are part of MSD’s history and are closely associated with Dr. Maurice Hilleman (1919-2005), the father of modern vaccine science. During his nearly 30-year career at MSD, he developed more than 40 vaccines for humans and animals. This legacy continues today thanks to our dedicated researchers.
The story of modern day vaccines began in 1796 when Dr. Edward Jenner inoculated 8-year-old James Phipps with cowpox as a way to protect him from smallpox. Jenner used the term “vaccination,” “vacca” being Latin for “cow.” In fact, it has been recognized for centuries that some diseases never reinfect a person after recovery. Smallpox was the first disease people tried to prevent by intentionally inoculating themselves with infected matter.
Dr. Edward Jenner inoculating 8-year-old James Phipps with cowpox.
Eight decades after Jenner published his findings, Louis Pasteur developed the first live attenuated bacterial vaccine. Attenuation is a process that weakens the bacteria or virus in a vaccine so it is less likely to cause disease, while still triggering an immune response similar to the natural infection. It would take many more decades for advances in basic and clinical research to make it possible for scientists to understand viruses well enough to begin developing vaccines that help protect against viral diseases.
DR. MAURICE HILLEMAN
The scientists who made giant strides in the fight against viral diseases included Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin. Dr. Maurice Hilleman, who led MSD’s Department of Virus and Cell Biology from 1956 to 1984, also belonged to that distinguished group of vaccine pioneers. Credited with helping to develop more than forty vaccines, Dr. Hilleman’s passionate commitment continues to inspire scientists in medical research laboratories to this day.
Dr. Hilleman was born and raised on a farm in Montana. It was a hard life, but a farm background was a great foundation for his later work. “When you are brought up on a farm, you have a lot of general knowledge,” he said. After graduating from the University of Chicago with a doctorate in microbiology and chemistry, Hilleman chose to work at a pharmaceutical company instead of academia.
Despite his many accomplishments, including helping to develop more than 40 human and animal vaccines, Dr. Maurice Hilleman’s name is virtually unknown by the general public and press. Yet his impact on public health is undeniable.
"Since Pasteur, he's done more for preventive medicine than anyone else."
Dale C. Smith
Chief historian at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD
"His commitment was to make something useful and convert it to clinical use. Maurice's genius was in developing vaccines, reliably reproducing them, and he was in charge of all pharmaceutical facets from research to the marketplace."
Paul Offit
Chief of infectious diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Hilleman's biographer
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan awarded the National Medal of Science to Dr. Hilleman, and in 1997, he was honored with The Albert B. Sabin Gold Medal Award. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has called Dr. Hilleman one of the true giants of science, medicine and public health in the 20th century.
Exercise brings people together and promotes good health. As a sponsor of the 2025 Luzerner Stadtlauf (Lucerne City Run), we enabled 1,100 children to take part in the popular school run free of charge and were also at the starting line ourselves – with over 300 MSD employees and their families.
May 13, 2025
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Luzerner Stadtlauf – more than just sport
Running not only strengthens the body – it also brings people together. We were able to experience this first-hand at the Luzerner Stadtlauf 2025. For over 45 years, it has been one of the most popular fun runs in Switzerland. Every year, it takes over 14,000 runners through the historic old town of Lucerne and attracts more than 25,000 spectators.
The team runs for primary schools are particularly popular. This year, MSD Switzerland covered the entry fees for 1,100 children in grades 3 to 6, enabling many of them to take part in the school run for free for the first time.
„Supporting the Luzerner Stadtlauf is a wonderful opportunity for us to show our commitment to the region and make a positive contribution to health, sport, and young people.“
Dimitri Gitas, Managing Director MSD Switzerland
Our MSD team was at the starting line
Whether young or old, over 300 MSD employees and their families laced up their running shoes and took part in various categories – whether in the company run, individual races, or together as a team. It was fun for the whole family and a successful team event!
48th Luzerner Stadtlauf – Saturday, April 25, 2026
The Luzerner Stadtlauf is a running event with distances ranging from 660 m to 7.0 km and is open to individual runners, company groups, families, school classes, and children. The 48th Luzerner Stadtlauf will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
In the company’s more than 130-year history, many women have helped shape MSD.
02.05.2025
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We introduce eight remarkable women who have paved the way for future generations.
01.
Ann Colon,
the first woman to celebrate 50 years with MSD.
Anna “Ann” Colon started in MSD’s packaging department in 1919. She became a manager in 1933.
When she retired after more than 50 years with MSD, she was the longest-tenured female employee in the company to date.
02.
Grace Winterling,
the first female corporate officer at MSD.
Grace Winterling began her career during World War II in the Priorities Department before taking on supervisory roles in the Systems and Procedures, Organizational Planning, and Office Services Divisions.
In 1954, she became an administrative assistant to the Corporate Secretary. She was elected to Assistant Secretary in 1957 – a role that made her the first woman to become one of the companies corporate officers. The fact that a female executive had been named was so remarkable that it made headlines in local newspapers.
After 15 years in corporate leadership, Grace was named president of the company’s Foundation, which continues continues to fund qualified, eligible nonprofit and philanthropic organizations today. Grace retired in 1983 after 40 years with MSD.
03.
Susan Jenkins,
the first african-american female chemist at MSD.
Susan R. Jenkins started at MSD Research Laboratories (MRL) in 1957 as one of the first African-American female chemists in the company, working on synthesizing enzymes, in addition to other activities.
She later moved to Human Resources, where she held various leadership positions, most recently as Senior Vice President of Human Resources.
04.
Marian S. Heiskell,
MSD’s first woman elected to Board of Directors.
Marian S. Heiskell, Director of Special Activities at the New York Times Company, became the first woman elected to MSD’s Board of Directors in 1973.
She retained her seat on the Board for 18 years until she stepped down in 1991. Marian Heiskell was a well-known philanthropist and newspaper executive and died in 2019 at the age of 100.
05.
Dorothy Bowers,
MSD’s first vice president of environmental and safety policy.
Dorothy Bowers joined MSD in 1974 as an engineer in the Environmental Department.
In 1982, she was promoted to Senior Director of Environmental Control. 10 years later, she was appointed to the newly created position of Vice President of Environmental and Safety Policy. Committed to ensuring our company was a leader in protecting the environment, Dorothy spearheaded numerous processes for reducing the company’s emissions and chemical releases, making MSD a model for the industry as one of the first companies to publicly commit to pollution reductions.
By 1999, after 25 years with the company, Dorothy had helped elevate environment protection to be among our highest business priorities before her retirement.
06.
Christine Stubbs,
the first woman to earn a chemical engineering degree from Howard University.
Christine “Chris” Stubbs began working at MSD in 1983 as the first woman to earn an engineering degree from Howard University.
From then, she was one of the company’s most active employees in promoting equal opportunity. After 10 years with MSD, Chris managed materials logistics at the Flint River manufacturing facility in Albany, Georgia, where she supervised 31 employees. This alone was impressive, but it was her additional work promoting diversity that earned her recognition as one of the 1993 Black Engineers of the Year from US Black Engineer magazine.
07.
Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole,
the first african-american female board member at MSD.
Dr. Cole joined the MSD Board of Directors in 1994 and retained the seat until 2009.
She was also the first African-American president of the prestigious Spelman College for African-American Women and also the first African-American woman on the Board of Directors at the Coca-Cola Company.
As early as 1997, Dr. Cole asserted that diversity was a smart investment for businesses, most notably stating, “Let’s address the question as to whether diversity in the American workforce is the right thing to do or the smart thing to do. The answer is: it is both.”
08.
Deborah Dagit,
MSD’s first Chief Diversity Officer.
Deborah Dagit worked as MSD’s first Diversity Officer for 12 years.
Deb, who had been instrumental in getting the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act passed by Congress, helped our company tie diversity and inclusion initiatives directly to the company’s business practices and results. In 2010, she established MSD’s employee business resource groups (EBRGs) that are still active today. Deb retired from our company in December 2012.
We promote innovation through diversity and inclusion
Worldwide, MSD promotes a working environment with the aim of making people feel comfortable regardless of culture, age, sexual orientation or gender. Diversity and inclusion have been an integral part of the corporate culture for many years. This is also reflected in the numbers e.g., around 50% of those who fill management positions in Switzerland and worldwide are women.
MSD Women’s Network
In 1995, a group of female MSD employees in the USA got together to found the MSD Women’s Network. The network is committed to gender equity. It now has 57 chapters worldwide and over 9,000 members, both women and men.
In Switzerland, around 400 employees are involved with the MSD Women’s Network.
MSD as an employer
Would you like to work with us to further develop our medicines and healthcare solutions, to continuously improve medical care and to bring inspiration to new generations? Become part of our team!
