Abbott named a “Top Employer” by Science Magazine

Abbott Laboratories was named one of the top 20 employers in Science magazine’s 2011 Top Biopharma Employers survey.

The annual survey polls employees at innovation-based companies and determines the best employers based on 23 characteristics.  According to the survey, Libertyville-based Abbott’s top three characteristics are: conducting important, quality research; being socially responsible; and treating employees with respect. The complete rankings are available online and in the Oct. 7 issue of Science.

“Abbott’s success begins with our scientists and we are honored to be included on Science magazine’s list of top employers,” said John Leonard, M.D., senior vice president, pharmaceuticals, research and development, Abbott and chair of Abbott’s scientific governing board. “Abbott has worked hard to create a diverse and creative scientific organization that encourages and rewards innovative thinking to find meaningful solutions for patients around the world.”

Abbott was also recognized as one of the 100 Best Companies by Working Mother magazine.

At Abbott, employees are given opportunities to succeed, lead and grow in their careers through training, mentoring, networking groups and development programs.  Abbott scientists are rewarded through the Chairman’s awards, President’s awards, patent/inventor awards and induction into the prestigious Volwiler Society, which was established in 1985 to recognize the company’s most distinguished scientists and engineers.

Named for the late Ernest H. Volwiler, Ph.D., an internationally recognized scientist and former Abbott president and chairman of the board, the society encourages professional growth, and is meant to spur, recognize and showcase scientific innovation at Abbott.  Each year, the Volwiler Society issues “Outstanding Research” awards to the Abbott scientists and teams who have made significant contributions to their scientific fields.