Biogen Idec has dropped the Idec from its name, in a new corporate identity and logo it says reflect both its evolution and focus on bringing forth new therapies in areas of high unmet need, while honoring Biogen’s scientific heritage and legacy as a pioneer in the biotechnology industry.

Biogen Idec was created in 2003 through the merger of Biogen and IDEC Pharmaceuticals, creating a research-based life sciences organizations. The company has since focused its research and commercial efforts in three core areas: neurology, immunology and hematology.

In an open letter from CEO George Scangos, he said, “In the years since Biogen and IDEC merged, we’ve made remarkable progress as a research organization, a commercial enterprise, a provider of medicines and a corporate entity. “

“Now we’ve reached another milestone,” he said. “With our new name comes a new logo, a new and modern visual identity and new ways to engage in conversation—the centerpiece of which is this web site and the communication channels that support it.” 

Scangos said, “The old Biogen and the old IDEC each contributed meaningfully to our current success, but today we are a new company, distinct from either parent, and we hope not only to carry on our heritage of excellence, but to forge new ground. Our name is intended to acknowledge our heritage but also to create a new image to reflect our new reality.”