The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) is partnering with the European Clinical Research Infrastructures Network (ECRIN) to honor the extraordinary contributions of clinical researchers worldwide on International Clinical Trials Day May 20.

Organizations, clinical research professionals and the public will be acknowledging the life changing achievements resulting from the work performed by clinical researchers. ACRP will serve as the platform for its network of member and member companies to voice their pride and passion for the essential work they are accomplishing on a daily basis.

“It is important that we take time to recognize the impact of clinical research on our society, and to celebrate and thank the women and men who perform ethical and responsible clinical research in pursuit of healthier, happier lives,” said James D. Thomasell, ACRP executive director.

Started in 2006 by ECRIN (www.ecrin.org), International Clinical Trials Day is celebrated around the world on or near May 20 each year to mark the day James Lind started what is often considered the first randomized clinical trial aboard a ship, on May 20, 1747 (www.jameslindlibrary.org).

“The objective is to make the International Clinical Trials Day a focal point for international communication events, meetings, debates and celebrations of clinical research,” said Christian Gluud, head of the Copenhagen Trial Unit (www.ctu.dk) and the Danish national coordinator of ECRIN. “We want people to realize that independent clinical research and randomized clinical trials are the ‘sine qua non’ for providing healthcare systems with top quality. A mega global educational activity is needed to make the public and large parts of the healthcare system understand that.”

From May 20 through 24, ACRP and its partners, including The Center for Information & Study on Clinical Research Participation (CISCRP; www.ciscrp.org), will recognize the global clinical research community by sharing stories of individuals whose lives have been changed through clinical trials. These patient profiles serve as a reminder that clinical research is a business of people and of the lives we touch every day.

“We’re simply delighted to be collaborating with ACRP in honoring clinical research professionals, in recognizing study volunteers and in acknowledging the important role that each party plays in advancing public health,” said Ken Getz, CISCRP’s board chair and founder. “It is extremely important that the international community understands and acknowledges the medical heroes—both patients and professionals—behind every medical intervention.”