Merck, a leading science and technology company, and Siemens have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate digital transformation in the life science industry through integrated AI-driven solutions. The partnership focuses on delivering end-to-end digital workflows that connect drug discovery, development, and manufacturing using automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
Strategic Partnership Expansion
The agreement marks a significant expansion of the companies' existing collaboration, representing the first joint use of technology acquired by Siemens as part of its Dotmatics acquisition completed in July 2025. Jean-Charles Wirth, Member of the Executive Board and CEO Life Science at Merck, emphasized the partnership's potential impact: "Through this collaboration with Siemens, we are opening new possibilities for scientists to move faster from an idea in the lab to a therapy for patients."
Cedrik Neike, Member of the Managing Board at Siemens AG and CEO of Siemens Digital Industries, highlighted the economic imperative driving the collaboration: "Every few years the cost for developing a new drug is doubling. Data, AI and digitalization are key to break this paradigm. We are connecting every step of drug development through a digital backbone – so that data flows seamlessly, insights emerge faster, and medication reaches patients faster."
Technology Integration and Digital Solutions
The collaboration centers on digital-first solutions designed to close workflow gaps in drug discovery and biomanufacturing. The partnership will integrate Merck's software-as-a-service (SaaS) products with Siemens' digital ecosystem, creating a unified platform for pharmaceutical research and development.
Initial pilot projects include making Merck's AI tools and digital applications available in Luma, Siemens' Dotmatics Scientific Intelligence Platform. This integration provides scientists with a single environment that links product ordering with immediate access to digital tools and insights needed for faster, data-driven decisions.
Future Development Plans
Building on the initial projects, Siemens and Merck plan to pursue deeper integration over time through several initiatives:
- Co-developing smarter data management tools and intuitive interfaces that simplify advanced processes for scientists
- Creating digital marketplaces that provide customers with streamlined access to complementary technologies and services
- Exploring joint development of better data management systems and more intuitive user interfaces
Industry Impact and Market Context
The partnership addresses critical challenges in pharmaceutical development, where rising costs and lengthy timelines have become significant barriers to bringing new therapies to market. By leveraging digital innovation, the companies aim to set a new standard for digital transformation in life sciences, providing scientists and manufacturers with tools to deliver breakthroughs more efficiently.
The collaboration builds on earlier MoUs between the two companies in smart manufacturing, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing innovation across the pharmaceutical industry. Both companies view digital innovation as central to the future of life sciences, with this partnership designed to accelerate the delivery of life-saving medications to patients worldwide.
