Pharmaron has reported a strategic partnership with Merck Serono. In the framework of this partnership, Pharmaron's new campus in the Beijing economic and technological development area (BDA) will serve as home to Merck Serono's China R&D laboratory.

The focus of this laboratory will be clinical bioanalysis and biomarker characterization, allowing for the identification of gene mutations among the Chinese population, early detection of disease processes, and development of personalized medicines for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

Pharmaron, an integrated CRO in the US and China with expertise from discovery to IND, recently completed the first phase of its new Beijing campus. This new campus houses Pharmaron's drug discovery services area including chemistry, DMPK, biology, pharmacology and GLP Bioanalysis.

Dr. Boliang Lou, Pharmaron chairman and CEO said, "This is an important day in Pharmaron's history. We have always envisioned building a new R&D campus and inviting the world's top scientists to collaborate with Pharmaron. Together, with world-leading drug R&D companies, we will contribute to advance research against devastating diseases." Dr. Lou also commented, "Today, this dream has come true. Through this unique partnership, we are providing Merck Serono with a favorable environment as well as qualified staff to lead their drug development programs for local and regional clinical trials against local diseases and unmet medical needs."