MSD Animal Health Opens Expanded R&D Laboratory in the Netherlands

The company grows in Boxmeer to improve the health of animals worldwide 

MSD Animal Health expands R&D lab in the Netherlands

From left to right: Darcio Santos, MSD Animal Health; Frank Mattijssen, MSD Netherlands; Fleur de Best, VNO-NCW Noordoost-Brabant; Ian Tarpey, MSD Animal Health; Ingrid Thijssen, VNO-NCW; Martin van Collenburg, MSD Animal Health; Hanny Swam, MSD Animal Health. Source: MSD Animal Health Nederland

MSD Animal Health, the global animal health business of U.S.-based MSD, has expanded its research and development laboratory for virology vaccines in Boxmeer, the Netherlands. This expansion, alongside its production site at the same location, will enable the company to accelerate veterinary health solutions globally. 

“At MSD Animal Health, we focus on innovation. With the expansion of the virology laboratory, we increase our capacity for vaccine development. This allows us to improve the health of more animals, thereby helping more customers and pet owners,” said Ian Tarpey, Global Lead for R&D Biologicals at MSD.  

Advanced ecosystem for animal vaccine development 

MSD Animal Health is supported by a robust R&D ecosystem in the Netherlands. The Boxmeer facility, the largest in MSD Animal Health’s global network of R&D locations, plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s research, development and international registrations of new vaccines, which contribute to the health of companion and farm animals worldwide. The expanded laboratory will introduce new departments and features upgraded facilities to optimize workflows and climate control. 

The Netherlands, Europe’s connected life sciences and health metropolis, is an ideal location for MSD Animal Health to drive animal health innovation. The country’s advanced infrastructure and highly skilled workforce enables MSD Animal Health to pursue a wide range of operations, from R&D and vaccine production to quality control and logistics. 

A rich history of innovation in the Netherlands 

In 2024, MSD Animal Health celebrates the 75th anniversary of its presence in Boxmeer and the province of North Brabant. MSD’s overall roots in the Netherlands go even deeper, stretching back more than a century. Approximately 2,000 employees contribute to MSD Animal Health’s operations in Boxmeer and nearby De Bilt, primarily in R&D and production roles.  

Coming on the heels of other expansions for MSD’s diverse Dutch operations in 2019 and 2023, this newest expansion highlights MSD’s dedication to advancing health for humans and animals alike. The company aligns closely with the Dutch commitment to driving innovation, fostering collaboration and creating a positive impact on people and the planet. 

About MSD Animal Health 

MSD Animal Health is a subsidiary of pharmaceutical company MSD, known in the U.S. and Canada as Merck. Utilizing cutting-edge science to improve global health outcomes, MSD leads groundbreaking research, delivering medicines, vaccines, and health solutions. Committed to enhancing animal and human health, MSD strives to elevate health standards worldwide. 

Source: Brabant Development Agency

27 March 2024

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