The world is constantly evolving, especially in the field of biotechnology, which continues to expand and present numerous growth opportunities. With thousands of biotechnology companies worldwide, the industry is ripe for innovation and advancement. Landing a job at a prominent biotech company is a coveted goal for many biology degree holders. However, finding the ideal company can be challenging. Before making a decision about employment, it’s crucial to carefully consider various aspects to ensure the best fit.
Best Biotech Companies to Work For
If you are seeking a career in the biotechnology field, this article is for you. Below listed are some of the best companies you can work for.
1. Johnson & Johnson
Glassdoor Rating: 4.1
Johnson & Johnson is a multinational biotechnology corporation founded in the 1880s, with its headquarters in New Jersey. Operating in about 60 different countries, it boasts approximately 250 subsidiary companies. For over 130 years, Johnson & Johnson has been dedicated to promoting wellness across all age groups. Initially focused on prescription drugs, the company has evolved into a major player in the biotech industry, with three main divisions: consumer healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. With a workforce of over 134,000 employees worldwide, Johnson & Johnson fosters diversity and inclusivity, encouraging individuals to leverage their unique backgrounds to drive innovation. Recognized as a top workplace for individuals with disabilities in 2018, the company prioritizes creating an inclusive environment. While the average employee salary exceeds $100,000, compensation varies based on roles and responsibilities, with opportunities for promotion and salary increments based on performance. Renowned for its commitment to employee well-being, Johnson & Johnson stands out for its emphasis on health and holistic support for its workforce.
2. Pfizer
Glassdoor Rating: 4.0
Pfizer is a multinational biotechnology corporation headquartered in New York City and ranks among the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies. Established in 1849 by two German-Americans in New York City, Pfizer initially gained recognition for its antiparasitic drug, santonin, which propelled its rapid growth. Over the years, Pfizer has expanded its portfolio to include medicines, vaccines, and medical devices across various medical disciplines such as immunology, cardiology, and neurology. Notable medications produced by Pfizer include Lipitor (which lowers LDL), fluconazole, and other vital drugs. With a workforce exceeding ninety thousand employees, Pfizer is committed to advancing healthcare globally through innovation and expansion.
Pfizer is renowned as a leading employer in the biotechnology sector, offering a conducive work environment and robust employee development programs. Company leaders actively engage in fostering employee growth and development, encouraging open discussions and exploration of individual interests within the organization. Pfizer emphasizes mentorship, providing employees with opportunities to connect with mentors who align with their career aspirations. Additionally, Pfizer prioritizes work-life balance, making it an attractive workplace for professionals. With an average employee salary of approximately ninety thousand dollars, Pfizer offers competitive compensation and is regarded as an excellent employer.
3. Roche
Glassdoor Rating: 4.0
Roche is a Swiss healthcare company renowned for its two major divisions: Pharmaceuticals and Diagnostics. Headquartered in Basel, Roche oversees numerous biotechnology companies worldwide, including Genentech, Chugai Pharmaceuticals, and Ventana. Initially recognized for its mass production of vitamins like vitamin C, Roche later introduced tranquilizers and the first antidepressant drug, iproniazid. Today, the company is a leader in cancer research and markets several cancer drugs. With one of the largest clinical laboratory networks in the biomedical sector, Roche maintains a robust organizational structure and separate units globally. In 2015, Roche generated revenue of approximately $57 billion, solidifying its position as the second-largest biotechnology company globally.
Roche boasts a diverse workforce of over 97 thousand employees worldwide, offering an ideal environment for continuous growth and learning. With clear goals and a constructive mindset shared by all employees, Roche fosters an atmosphere of enthusiasm and adaptability. The company is guided by capable leaders committed to employee development and offers comprehensive benefits, including health coverage and additional perks like phones and credit cards. Roche prioritizes cultural and mental diversity in the workplace, striving to create an inclusive environment. While compensation varies based on roles, Roche is widely regarded as a competitive employer with attractive pay scales.
4. GlaxoSmithKline
Glassdoor Rating: 3.9
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), a British multinational company headquartered in Brentford, London, was formed in 2000 through the merger of two prominent companies: Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham. Glaxo Wellcome initially gained commercial success by producing vitamin D and later expanded its influence by acquiring and merging with biotechnology firms abroad, playing a pivotal role in the USA’s medical sector. Renowned for its well-equipped laboratories and home to Nobel Prize winners Gertrude B. Elion and George H. Hitchings, Glaxo Wellcome contributed significantly to medical advancements. Conversely, SmithKline Beecham emerged from the merger of three leading pharmaceutical companies. GSK has continually developed new drugs and medical products, with top-selling items including Advair, Lamictal, Sensodyne, Horlicks, and nasal sprays, positioning GSK among the top ten biotechnology companies with a market capitalization of approximately $107 billion.
GSK employs over ninety-five thousand individuals worldwide and is recognized for its inclusive and supportive work environment. The company dedicates substantial efforts to ensuring a safe and nurturing workplace for all employees. As a global biotechnology leader, GSK offers compelling opportunities and access to accomplished mentors. With a diverse workforce representing various races and ethnicities, GSK fosters an environment brimming with innovative ideas. The company’s comprehensive benefits package attracts top talent, providing numerous on-the-job learning opportunities and opportunities to establish relationships with industry leaders. GSK also offers a plethora of formal learning initiatives within the organization.
5. AstraZeneca
Glassdoor Rating: 3.9
AstraZeneca, a British-Swedish biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Cambridge, United Kingdom, maintains its primary focus in Cambridge, Gaithersburg, and Maryland, USA. Established in 1999 through the merger of Swedish Astra AB and British Zeneca Group, the company traces its origins back to the Swedish company founded by 400 doctors. Initially concentrating on pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, AstraZeneca has since experienced exponential growth, emerging as one of the largest biotechnology firms globally. Through strategic acquisitions of prominent entities like Cambridge Antibody Technology, Springer, and MedImmune, AstraZeneca has expanded its reach worldwide, innovating medications to address a myriad of health conditions, including cancer, infections, neuroscience disorders, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases.
AstraZeneca cultivates an environment driven by ambition, making it an ideal workplace for individuals with a strong drive for success. Employees should be prepared for a substantial workload and possess a forward-thinking mindset, as the company values risk-taking and embraces innovation. Supported by seasoned professionals, employees benefit from a transparent and communicative workspace. A distinctive aspect of AstraZeneca is its integration of technology across all aspects of its operations. With a workforce exceeding 60 thousand individuals spanning 100 countries, AstraZeneca remains at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation.
6. Teva Pharmaceuticals
Glassdoor Rating: 3.3
Teva Pharmaceuticals is a multinational corporation with dual headquarters situated in Israel and New Jersey. Originally established in 1935 as a wholesale distributor in Jerusalem, the modern-day Teva emerged in 1968 through the merger of three companies: Assia, Teva, and Zori. Through strategic acquisitions both domestically and internationally, Teva Pharmaceuticals has solidified its position as one of the leading companies in its sector. With a mission to enhance patient lives and expand healthcare accessibility globally, Teva specializes in generic drugs, active ingredients, and other proprietary pharmaceutical products. Renowned as one of the largest biopharmaceutical firms worldwide, Teva focuses its research and development efforts on improving health outcomes in areas such as respiratory, migraine, movement, and neurological diseases, impacting individuals in over 60 countries.
Recognizing its workforce as its most valuable asset, Teva Pharmaceuticals prioritizes the creation of an optimal working environment for its employees. Offering competitive compensation and generous vacation allowances, the company provides ongoing training opportunities to keep its staff abreast of the latest industry trends. Encouraging innovation and creativity, Teva fosters a culture that challenges individuals to think outside the box and seize exciting prospects daily. Employees at Teva Pharmaceuticals derive satisfaction from their work knowing they contribute to positively impacting the lives of millions worldwide. With a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, Teva values individuals from all backgrounds, fostering a dynamic and enriching workspace for its employees.
7. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
Glassdoor Rating: 3.9
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company headquartered in New York. Founded in 1988 by Leonard Schleifer, a neurologist from Cornell University, and joined by several experts in the following years, the company initially focused on neurotrophic factors and their regenerative capabilities. Over time, its focus expanded to encompass various neurological topics, leading to the development of new products to improve human health. Notable achievements include the development of aflibercept, VEGF inhibitors, and rilonacept, as well as drugs for cholesterol management and the commercialization of immuno-oncology treatments. In addition to its dedication to research and development, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals also invests in educational initiatives for children, such as sponsoring the Bio-Bus Laboratory for school districts. This commitment to both company growth and community engagement has earned Regeneron recognition as one of the top biopharmaceutical companies to work for, receiving accolades such as Biopharma Company of the Year on multiple occasions.
With a global workforce exceeding eighty-one thousand employees, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals has established itself as a leader in biopharmaceuticals over its thirty-year history, driven by its dedicated team. The company’s business is rooted in scientific excellence, attracting experts from diverse scientific backgrounds who bring valuable experience to their roles. As the company continues to expand, there are abundant opportunities for career advancement for those who demonstrate exceptional performance. Regeneron welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment for everyone. Offering competitive pay and comprehensive employee benefits, the company prioritizes the well-being of its workforce, providing job security and promoting employee health. Additionally, Regeneron encourages team bonding through organized gatherings outside of the office, further strengthening the sense of community among its employees.
8. AbbVie
Glassdoor Rating: 3.8
AbbVie is a biopharmaceutical company founded in 2013 as a spin-off of Abbott Laboratories. Following the split of Abbott Laboratories into two publicly traded entities—New Abbott Laboratories and AbbVie—AbbVie focused on research-based pharmaceuticals, while New Abbott Laboratories concentrated on medical devices. This division aimed to establish distinct market priorities and profiles for each company. Since its inception, AbbVie has dedicated itself to producing innovative medications and investing in creating healthier, vibrant communities worldwide. The company has addressed health issues such as HCV, Parkinson’s, and hidradenitis, while developing medications like Ritonavir Tablets and IMBRUVICA. Within five years of its establishment, AbbVie introduced treatments for numerous disorders and gained recognition as a top employer. Today, it employs approximately thirty thousand individuals across over 170 countries.
As a member of AbbVie, you become part of a culture that values work-life integration and community service. The company emphasizes continuous learning and growth for its employees, prioritizing their needs and well-being. AbbVie offers comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage, as well as life insurance. It also provides robust retirement plans, distinguishing it from its competitors. Moreover, AbbVie takes a personal interest in its employees’ lives by facilitating adoptions and other activities. Working at AbbVie offers the opportunity to contribute to the development of new biotechnologies and engage in community service, providing a fulfilling professional experience.
9. Merck
Glassdoor Rating: 3.8
Merck is a multinational company headquartered in New Jersey, United States, with roots tracing back to the 1890s in Japan. Founded by Friedrich Jacob Merck, who purchased a drugstore and transformed it into a pharmaceutical company, Merck later relocated to the United States during World War I. It gained prominence through pioneering the commercial production of morphine. With a strong commitment to innovative work in biotechnology, Merck has become one of the largest companies globally.
The company’s product portfolio includes treatments for diabetes, cancer, vaccines, Alzheimer’s disease, and adult care products. Additionally, Merck invests in research and development of medications for pandemics such as Ebola. Beyond pharmaceuticals, Merck publishes a series of medical reference books for professionals in the field.
Employing over seventy-one thousand people across more than 100 countries, Merck values its employees as more than just lab coats. It sees each individual as a potential innovator and encourages them to reach their maximum potential. The company prioritizes employee well-being and fosters a diverse community. With salaries ranging from $40,000 to $1,100,000 on average, Merck has been a leader in the industry for over 350 years.
10. Sanofi
Glassdoor Rating: 3.7
Sanofi is a French multinational company headquartered in Paris and currently ranks as the fifth-largest company globally. Formed by the merger of Sanofi-Synthelabo and Aventis, Sanofi-Synthelabo emerged in 1999 from the consolidation of several companies, focusing on beauty, diagnostics, and health and nutrition products. Aventis, on the other hand, was primarily a research-focused entity. The merger birthed Sanofi, engaging in the research and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and over-the-counter medications, with a focus on seven key health areas: cardiovascular, nervous system, diabetes, internal medicine, vaccination, oncology, and thrombosis.
With a presence in over 100 countries and a workforce exceeding 100,000 employees, Sanofi is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of both its customers and employees. The company offers a variety of benefits tailored to employees’ roles, regularly reviewed to ensure relevance. Additionally, Sanofi provides savings and investment plans to secure employees’ financial futures, along with special programs covering adoptions, retirement, and loans. With a competitive salary structure and a positive work environment, Sanofi prioritizes the welfare of its employees.
Conclusion
The field of biotechnology offers a plethora of opportunities for those seeking rewarding careers in innovation and healthcare. Each company boasts its unique culture, values, and employee benefits, ensuring a diverse array of options for aspiring professionals. Whether you’re driven by a passion for scientific discovery, a commitment to improving global health, or a desire for personal and professional growth, the biotechnology industry has something to offer. By carefully considering factors such as company values, work-life balance, and career development opportunities, you can find the perfect fit for your skills and aspirations. So, take the next step in your biotech career journey and explore the opportunities waiting for you at these top biotechnology companies. Your future in biotech starts here!
