Celerion Expands UK Phase 1 Trials at Queen’s University Belfast’s iREACH Health
Celerion, a global leader in early clinical research, has announced a strategic agreement to relocate its U.K. Phase 1 clinical research operations to the new iREACH Health facility at Queen’s University Belfast. This cutting-edge clinical research center, developed in partnership with the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, is designed to strengthen Northern Ireland’s position as a hub for life sciences innovation. The relocation is expected to significantly enhance Celerion’s research capabilities, further supporting the company’s commitment to accelerating drug development.
Strengthening Clinical Research Capabilities
Celerion’s Belfast clinic has been at the forefront of clinical research for over three decades, consistently evolving to meet the demands of modern drug development. By moving to iREACH Health, Celerion gains access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, enabling greater efficiency and collaboration within the life sciences sector. The facility is scheduled to be completed in early 2027 and will serve as a cornerstone of innovation in clinical research.
This strategic move is poised to improve the efficiency and speed of Phase 1 clinical trials, a critical stage in drug development that assesses the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of new therapies. By leveraging the advanced resources at iREACH Health, Celerion aims to optimize trial outcomes and expedite the introduction of novel treatments to the market.
A World-Class Research Hub
iREACH Health will be located in two modern buildings adjacent to Belfast City Hospital, offering a collaborative space for industry leaders, academic researchers, and healthcare professionals. The facility will feature a specialized 100-bed Phase 1 clinical unit designed to meet Celerion’s specifications, ensuring optimal support for its research team. This space will also accommodate a highly skilled workforce specializing in data management, medical writing, and biometrics, further reinforcing Celerion’s expertise in early drug development.
The team at Celerion will benefit from a robust infrastructure that supports adaptive study design, protocol development, and advanced clinical data sciences. These capabilities are essential for minimizing risks in drug development while generating high-quality data that can guide regulatory decisions and commercial strategies.
Commitment to Innovation and Collaboration
Phil Bach, Executive Vice President of Global Clinical Research at Celerion, expressed enthusiasm about the relocation, emphasizing its impact on drug development timelines. “Our new home at iREACH Health will enhance the speed and efficiency of our Phase 1 clinical trials, supporting our clients in accelerating drug development timelines,” Bach stated. He highlighted the long-standing relationship between Celerion and Queen’s University Belfast, emphasizing that this move marks a significant step toward fostering innovation in early clinical research.
The relocation to iREACH Health is expected to drive meaningful collaboration between government entities, pharmaceutical companies, and academic institutions. This synergy will play a vital role in developing novel therapies, benefiting both patients and the broader healthcare ecosystem.
Advancing Healthcare in Northern Ireland and Beyond
Professor Judy Bradley, CEO of iREACH Health, underscored the center’s mission to deliver innovative, data-driven, and digitally enabled clinical trials. “Our aim is to deliver agile, people-centered clinical trials that are innovative, data-driven, and digitally enabled. We are delighted to work with Celerion to advance those plans and tackle some of Northern Ireland’s most pressing healthcare challenges,” Bradley stated.
The partnership with Celerion aligns with iREACH Health’s broader goal of enhancing healthcare outcomes while driving economic and social progress. By fostering groundbreaking research and supporting the local biotech industry, this collaboration is set to create lasting benefits for the region and beyond.
The Future of Early-Phase Drug Development
The relocation to iREACH Health is more than just a physical move—it represents a significant milestone in Celerion’s mission to revolutionize early-phase drug development. By integrating advanced clinical research methodologies with cutting-edge facilities, Celerion is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of the pharmaceutical industry.
This transition also reflects a growing emphasis on digital transformation in clinical research. With the integration of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and real-time monitoring systems, early-phase trials can now be conducted with greater precision and efficiency. iREACH Health’s commitment to these technological advancements will further enhance Celerion’s ability to deliver high-quality clinical data that informs regulatory decisions and accelerates drug approvals.
A Transformative Impact on Drug Discovery
Celerion’s relocation to iREACH Health is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the global pharmaceutical landscape. The enhanced capabilities at this new facility will not only benefit Celerion’s clients but also contribute to a broader effort to improve patient access to groundbreaking therapies. By streamlining Phase 1 clinical trials, reducing development timelines, and fostering collaboration across multiple sectors, this move is set to drive significant advancements in drug discovery and development.
As the pharmaceutical industry continues to evolve, partnerships like the one between Celerion and Queen’s University Belfast serve as a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration. With iREACH Health positioned as a leading center for clinical research, Northern Ireland is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of drug development.
By making this strategic relocation, Celerion reaffirms its dedication to pioneering advancements in clinical research, ensuring that the next generation of therapies reaches patients faster and more efficiently than ever before.
