Global CRO QPS Holdings opened a new lab devoted to in vitro research, setting up shop in Fargo, ND, with eyes on early-stage partnerships.
The new operation is an extension of QPS' dermal and transdermal research services, devoted to handling pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence studies for developers of topical and under-the-skin treatments. Paul Lehman, QPS' head of dermal and transdermal research, is leading the operation.
The facility is already offering preclinical services related to drug metabolism and is soon to begin clinical operations to support regulatory filings, QPS said.
"Our dermal and transdermal research services division, which has been embraced by the industry since its establishment under the leadership of Paul Lehman, has quickly become a major asset to QPS--and crucial for the future success for our clients," CEO Ben Chien said in a statement.
The expansion follows a string of acquisitions for the Delaware-headquartered CRO. In 2013, QPS bought Miami Research Associates to bolster its Phase I capabilities, before that snapping up JSW, Bioserve, Xendo and Taiwan's Center of Toxicology and Preclinical Science.
The company now employs more than 1,100 people around the world, focusing on CNS studies and early-stage research.
- read the statement (PDF)