Biotechnology involves leveraging discoveries in life sciences to develop commercial products and services. A biotech company operates within this industry, utilizing scientific advancements to innovate in pharmaceuticals, medical treatments, and other life-enhancing solutions.
Biotech companies exist worldwide, with many emerging as industry leaders. This article highlights 25 of the largest biotechnology firms, ranked by their market value.
Although Johnson & Johnson is often associated with consumer health products, it is one of the largest biotech companies globally. Founded in 1886, the company produces over 172 medications in the U.S., including widely recognized brands like Tylenol and Sudafed.
Johnson & Johnson's pharmaceutical division focuses on infectious diseases, oncology, immunology, and neuroscience. The company is at the forefront of medical innovations, with strict quality standards and a commitment to scientific breakthroughs. In 2019, it was featured in LinkedIn’s "Top Companies" list as one of the most desirable workplaces in the U.S. Additionally, it made Fast Company's list of the most innovative biotech firms.
Key initiatives include advancements in immunotherapy for cancer treatment and solutions for vision disorders.
Pfizer ranks as the second-largest pharmaceutical company in biotechnology. Established in 1849 as a chemical company, it expanded significantly in the 1880s through the production and sale of citric acid.
Today, Pfizer is a global leader in vaccines and pharmaceuticals, focusing on fields such as oncology, immunology, diabetology, neurology, and cardiology. Celebrex and Lipitor are among its most recognized drugs. The company has its research headquarters in Groton, Connecticut, and corporate offices in New York City.
With approximately 78,300 employees, Pfizer reported $48.85 billion in revenue in 2015, and by 2016, its market value stood at $196 billion.
Headquartered in Cambridge, U.K., AstraZeneca is a prominent multinational pharmaceutical and biotech firm. It specializes in discovering and manufacturing prescription medicines.
In April 2020, AstraZeneca partnered with the University of Oxford to develop and distribute a COVID-19 vaccine, cementing its role as a leader in global healthcare innovation.
Novo Nordisk, a Danish multinational biotech and biomedical company, operates in over 80 countries with production facilities in seven.
The company specializes in diabetes care, hemophilia treatment, growth hormone therapy, and hormone replacement therapies. Its well-known medications include Levemir, NovoLog, Novolin R, NovoSeven, NovoEight, and Victoza.
Aduro Biotech, based in California, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing immune-based treatments for complex diseases.
The company generates annual revenue between $50 million and $100 million. Employees describe a collaborative work environment with a strong emphasis on professional growth. Aduro's innovative treatments, currently in Phase 1 and 2 trials, use STING Pathway Activators and B-select monoclonal antibody technology to modulate immune responses. The firm collaborates with Merck, one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies.
A Swiss biotech powerhouse, Novartis was formed in 1996 following the merger of Sandoz and Ciba-Geigy. The company focuses on pharmaceuticals, generic medicines, and eye care, exporting products to 155 countries.
Novartis ranks fourth on Fortune’s list of the most admired pharmaceutical companies. It actively expands into emerging markets, particularly in Africa and Latin America, to improve healthcare accessibility.
Alexion specializes in developing immunoregulatory drugs to treat cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. Its therapies selectively target immune system components to prevent disease progression.
Vertex focuses on creating treatments for cancer, cystic fibrosis, autoimmune diseases, and neurological disorders.
Headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey, Merck develops a variety of pharmaceutical and biotech products, including prescription medicines, vaccines, and biologic therapies.
In June 2025, Merck launched the Merck Digital Science Studio (MDSS) in partnership with the New Jersey Innovation Institute, fostering new drug discovery technologies.
An Irish biopharmaceutical company, Jazz Pharmaceuticals produces drugs for narcolepsy, psychiatry, pain management, and oncology. In March, the FDA approved its drug JZP-258 for treating cataplexy.
Based in Michigan, SQZ Biotechnologies develops cell therapies using its proprietary SQZ Cell Therapy Platform. Employees describe a dynamic, patient-centric work culture.
Founded in 1980, Amgen is one of the world’s largest independent biotech firms, headquartered in Thousand Oaks, California. It focuses on six therapeutic areas: cancer, heart disease, brain health, inflammation, kidney health, and bone health.
Operating in nearly 100 countries, Amgen generates about $23 billion annually and employs around 19,000 people. The company is recognized for its employee benefits and leadership opportunities.
Notable drugs include Enbrel (rheumatoid arthritis) and Neulasta (infection prevention during chemotherapy). In 2018, the FDA approved Aimovig, a migraine prevention drug developed with Novartis.
BioMarin focuses on developing treatments for rare genetic diseases and also offers diagnostic and analytical services in carbohydrate biology.
This company specializes in treatments for pulmonary hypertension and vascular diseases. Popular drugs include Remodulin, Orenitram, Unituxin, and Tyvaso.
An Irish pharmaceutical company, Alkermes develops treatments for central nervous system disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, addiction, and diabetes.
Ionis Pharmaceuticals pioneers RNA-based medicines. Its key commercial products include WAYLIVRA, Spinraza, and Tegsedi. The company is also advancing treatments for Huntington’s disease, ALS, and cardiovascular conditions.
Supported by the North Carolina General Assembly, this organization fosters biotech advancements in the region.
The biotechnology industry is revolutionizing global healthcare by developing life-saving treatments and innovative therapies. These 25 companies represent the pinnacle of biotech research and development, shaping the future of medicine and improving patient outcomes worldwide.
