Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026
09:50
Impact Assessment of Repeated Exposure of Organotypic 3D Bronchial and Nasal Tissue Culture Models to Whole Cigarette Smoke
Published on: February 12, 2015
The Philip Morris External Research Program: results from the first round of projects
N Hirschhorn1, S Aguinaga Bialous, S Shatenstein
1bertzpoet@yahoo.com
Tobacco Control
|May 27, 2006
Summary
Philip Morris External Research Program (PMERP) grants primarily funded research on tobacco constituents, with many researchers having prior industry ties. The program aimed to enhance corporate image rather than foster independent scientific inquiry.
Area of Science:
- Tobacco industry research funding
- Scientific credibility and public image
- Corporate strategy in scientific research
Background:
- Philip Morris (PM) established the Philip Morris External Research Program (PMERP) in 2000, following the dissolution of industry research bodies.
- PMERP's structure mirrored previous industry programs, soliciting research that could mitigate risks associated with cigarettes.
- A significant proportion of peer reviewers had existing ties to the tobacco industry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze grants awarded by the Philip Morris External Research Program (PMERP) in its initial phase.
- To investigate the peer-reviewed publications resulting from PMERP-funded research.
Main Methods:
- Searched internet archives for industry documents using PMERP as a keyword.
- Conducted Medline searches for publications authored by PMERP grantees.
Main Results:
- Out of 153 applications, 61 proposals were funded, leading to 78 publications.
- Sixty-five percent of the publications focused on tobacco plant or its constituents.
- Over half of the researchers involved had prior tobacco industry funding, and internal documents revealed goals of "credibility" and "goodwill".
Conclusions:
- The Philip Morris External Research Program (PMERP) appears to serve a corporate public relations strategy rather than promoting independent scientific investigation.
- The program's focus and researcher selection suggest an intent to improve Philip Morris's public image.
