1947 - Werner Schäfer, PhD develops the first synthetic penicillin at Hoechst.

1953 - With entrepreneurial vision Werner starts his own business in a small laboratory in Basel, Switzerland. His innovations in the field of surface active compounds create the foundation of what is known as CIS Pharma today. Developing industry leading technologies he soon is renowned for his research on cutting-edge surfactants that are used by NATO and other large accounts.

1969 - NASA applies Werner Schäfer's technology to protect the Apollo 12 lunar module from corrosion.

1973 - Werner Schäfer incorporates Chemisches Institut Schäfer AG (CIS Pharma), laying the grounds for the second generation to join the company.

1981 - Werner founds the Association of Swiss Private Laboratories, GSDL. www.gsdl.ch

1983 - Growing contract manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API's) into a successful business the group incorporates the second business unit under the name of Amcis AG.

1987 - As a result of the increasing success, CIS Pharma and Amcis AG move into their new facilities in Bubendorf, in the immediate vicinity of Basel.

1988 - In order to have permanent representation in the USA CIS Pharma founds ISC USA, Inc. in Kansas City.

1996 - The new Amcis cGMP production facility is completed. It is a joint venture with Amcis' main account Alcon Laboratories, Inc.

2000 - CIS Pharma management decides on a strategic realignment. Amcis AG is sold to Solutia, Inc., a Monsanto spin-off.

2003 - CIS Pharma inaugurates its new facilities that also serve as the new home for Amcis AG.