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  • January 1990 (Revised October 1993)
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Monsanto's March into Biotechnology (A)

By: Gary P. Pisano
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:17
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Abstract

Very early in the history of biotechnology (about 1979), Monsanto made a major commitment to move into this field. This case recounts the history from the point of view of the eminent scientist hired to head up corporate R&D. He took Monsanto from a very traditional agricultural chemicals technology base to one of the world's finest biotechnology centers and oversaw the purchase of Searle Pharmaceuticals. Raises a number of issues: How can a company move into a totally new technology? What are the advantages and disadvantages of sourcing technology from small firms and universities? How should research be organized? Emphasizes the very long-term view that Monsanto took in justifying their huge investment.

Keywords

History; Transition; Biotechnology Industry; Agriculture and Agribusiness Industry

Citation

Pisano, Gary P. "Monsanto's March into Biotechnology (A)." Harvard Business School Case 690-009, January 1990. (Revised October 1993.)
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About The Author

Gary P. Pisano

Technology and Operations Management
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Related Work

    • November 1991
    • Faculty Research

    Monsanto's March into Biotechnology (B)

    By: Dorothy A. Leonard
    • November 1991
    • Faculty Research

    Monsanto's March into Biotechnology (B) (Abridged)

    By: Dorothy Leonard-Barton and Alistair D. Williamson
    • September 1998
    • Faculty Research

    Monsanto's March into Biotechnology (C)

    By: Dorothy A. Leonard and Robert Irwin
Related Work
  • Monsanto's March into Biotechnology (B) By: Dorothy A. Leonard
  • Monsanto's March into Biotechnology (B) (Abridged) By: Dorothy Leonard-Barton and Alistair D. Williamson
  • Monsanto's March into Biotechnology (C) By: Dorothy A. Leonard and Robert Irwin
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