Dr Ruth Hargreaves, Medical Manager, Pfizer UK, is looking forward to working closely with the school. She said: "This is a valuable new partnership for us where we are hoping to develop a number of joint initiatives over the years. In particular, we plan to help the students by giving them the opportunity to acquire a variety of new business skills, specifically business management, as well as working closely with them on a selection of scientific research projects. In addition, we will also be involved in the Schools' therapeutic teaching programme and providing support to the many tutors."

The Brighton and Sussex Medical School is an equal partnership between University of Brighton and University of Sussex, working together with the NHS throughout the South East region. It is funded by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) and the Department of Health.

Jon Cohen added: "This is the start of a very exciting relationship and it is a real opportunity for us to learn from each other. As part of our wider plans we hope that other companies and organisations will consider the school as a worthwhile recipient in the future."