Merck is a global science and technology company with a passion for forward-thinking discoveries. We want to develop products and solutions for a better life. That's why we take a closer look at things, ask questions and think ahead. We've been around for 350 years, yet the great majority of our shares are still held by the descendants of Friedrich Jacob Merck, the man who founded our company in Darmstadt in 1668. More than 50,000 employees work together with us on innovative solutions and the newest technologies in healthcare, life science and performance materials. From improving electronic devices with smarter materials to generating ultra pure water, testing the quality of food and drugs, and treating cancer, Merck always promotes opportunities to break new ground. We are Merck.