Merck Serono, Quintiles sign five-year clinical development agreement

The collaboration aims to optimize productivity in the design and execution of studies while focusing on quality, speed and efficiency.

Merck Serono global development and medical executive vice president and head Annalisa Jenkins said, "This is an innovative and unique collaboration that will help to translate the highest-quality science into efficiency and agility throughout our clinical trials, while enhancing our competitive position in an increasingly challenging environment of clinical drug development."

According to the deal, Merck Serono will shape and lead the strategy of its clinical development programs while Quintiles will direct clinical trial planning and execution leveraging highly efficient processes and proven technologies.

Quintiles will collaborate in strategic decision-making processes affecting the development of the Merck Serono portfolio so as to completely utilize the expertise from both the countries.

Quintiles chief executive officer Tom Pike said, "This agreement is built upon a long-standing commitment to trust and transparency between our two organizations, and I’m confident it will only be enhanced by this innovative relationship."

The outsourced clinical development services will be provided by Quintiles to Merck Serono’s for future global clinical programs.

The agreement covers full spectrum of clinical development, from Phase I through to post-marketing approvals.