Our Research Vision

Rigorous and groundbreaking science has always been at the core of what we do at Genentech. Our unique emphasis on strong basic research combined with an applied focus on translational research, has been instrumental to our success and growth. Today, I have the distinct privilege of leading the more than 1,200 researchers and scientists and 135 post-docs who are carrying on this impressive tradition.

Genentech scientists are encouraged to be creative and active members of the scientific community. We are proud of our publication record in Science, Nature, Cell, and other prestigious peer-reviewed journals, where our annual output consistently rivals or surpasses that of the top academic institutions. Our novel discoveries have also secured more than 10,500 patents worldwide, with about 7,000 patent applications pending.

Publications and patents, however, are means at Genentech, not ends. The primary mission of Genentech Research and Early Development is to keep the product pipeline full of new drug candidates for serious and life-threatening diseases. While perhaps best known for our work in oncology, which remains a major focus area, we have major initiatives ongoing in the areas of immunology, neuroscience, metabolism, and infectious disease. I truly believe that if your goal is to do world-class science in the interest of helping patients, there is no better place in the world to be.

Dr. Richard H. Scheller