Premier Research--one of the largest CRO operations around--is expanding so it can handle outpatient trials for the first time and also keep patients overnight to boost its pharmacokinetic sampling operations. Outsourcing-Pharma reports the company debuted two new research facilities in Phoenix and Salt Lake City to accommodate the added businesses, with features including operating rooms, surgery suites, PK freezers and processing labs. The sites will be able to handle healthy volunteers, with a focus on such research areas as chronic pain and neuroscience. CEO Ludo Reynders told the publication the decision to double Premier's clinical trials testing capacity helps meet an increased demand for outsourcing, from proof-of-concept Phase I trials through post-marketing studies. Story