About AstraZeneca
Founded in 1913, AstraZeneca has been at the forefront of scientific innovation for over a century, committed to delivering life-changing medicines to patients across the globe. With a mission to unlock the full potential of what science can achieve for people, society, and the planet, AstraZeneca has grown into a global biopharmaceutical leader known for its pioneering work in oncology, biopharmaceuticals, and rare diseases.
A Legacy of Innovation
AstraZeneca’s history is marked by constant evolution and breakthrough discoveries. In recent years, the company has made significant strides, such as the establishment of its fifth global R&D center in Shanghai in 2024 and the unveiling of the Discovery Centre (DISC) in Cambridge, UK in 2021. These state-of-the-art research hubs symbolize the company’s commitment to cutting-edge research, collaboration, and sustainability.
One of AstraZeneca’s notable milestones was the acquisition of Alexion in 2021, expanding its scientific footprint in immunology and rare diseases. The launch of the Ambition Zero Carbon programme in 2020 demonstrates AstraZeneca’s dedication to environmental sustainability, with a goal to achieve a carbon-negative value chain by 2030.
Groundbreaking Research and Development
At the core of AstraZeneca’s success is its robust R&D approach, focusing on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines. With more than 83,000 employees worldwide, AstraZeneca's research efforts span several key areas, including oncology, cardiovascular, renal, and respiratory diseases. AstraZeneca’s global R&D centers, such as those in Cambridge, Gaithersburg, and Gothenburg, enable seamless collaboration across disciplines, fueling scientific breakthroughs that push the boundaries of medicine.
AstraZeneca’s innovation is not limited to its research efforts. In 2023, the company launched Evinova, a health-tech business aimed at accelerating innovation across the life sciences sector. This venture signifies AstraZeneca’s vision to integrate digital health solutions into its operations, advancing patient care in new and meaningful ways.
Transforming Lives through Precision Medicine
Within its Oncology and BioPharmaceuticals units, AstraZeneca has developed personalized healthcare strategies that redefine treatment for diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions. By leveraging next-generation therapies, scientific partnerships, and a broad pipeline of medicines, AstraZeneca strives to improve the quality of life for patients around the world.
The company’s commitment to rare diseases, enhanced through Alexion’s innovative complement-biology platform, underscores AstraZeneca’s dedication to addressing unmet medical needs. This focus on personalized medicine enables AstraZeneca to pioneer treatments that have the potential to significantly alter the course of chronic and life-threatening diseases.
A Vision for Sustainability and Community Engagement
AstraZeneca is also deeply committed to environmental sustainability and community development. The company’s Ambition Zero Carbon initiative reflects a firm stance on reducing its environmental impact, setting aggressive targets to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045. The DISC facility in Cambridge, which has received accolades for its energy-efficient design, is a prime example of AstraZeneca’s leadership in sustainable innovation.
Beyond its commitment to science and sustainability, AstraZeneca is dedicated to fostering the next generation of scientific talent. Through STEM programs and partnerships with educational institutions, AstraZeneca inspires young people to explore careers in science and technology, cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce ready to tackle the healthcare challenges of tomorrow.
Leadership and Global Impact
Guided by a visionary leadership team, including CEO Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca continues to navigate the complex landscape of modern healthcare with agility and foresight. With a strategic focus on innovation, patient outcomes, and sustainability, AstraZeneca remains a key player in addressing some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.
As AstraZeneca looks to the future, it remains committed to its core mission: to harness the power of science to deliver transformative healthcare solutions, improve patient lives, and drive meaningful impact on a global scale.