The UK-based Institute of Clinical Research (ICR) has decided to establish operations in India, seen as a key emerging destination for conducting clinical trials.
The move follows an increasing number of enquiries from existing and potential new members in India about membership, education, training and information, ICR said in a statement.
ICR Chief Executive John Hooper and board member Alan Needham are visiting New Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai from November 14 to meet key players in clinical research from the government, academia and industry to establish how the ICR can "help in developing professionals, sharing knowledge and raising standards." According to the statement, it is envisaged that an Indian Advisory Board for the ICR will be established to lead the Institute in India.
Hooper said in the statement: "India is seen as a key emerging destination for conducting clinical trials. There is great interest in the ICR's expertise, including its long established programmes which are now increasingly delivered through eLearning and its openness to sharing knowledge and information resulting in higher standards of clinical trials".
Both Needham and Hooper will be speaking at a "Conference Workshop on Global Clinical Trials in India - Prospects and Challenges", organised by FICCI (Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry) in New Delhi, it said.