RSP and Asklep form joint venture in Japan

FORT WASHINGTON, Pennsylvania and TOKYO -- ReSearch Pharmaceutical Services Inc. (RPS), a leading global contract research organization and Asklep Inc., one of Japan's largest CROs, have created a joint venture company to deliver leading-edge R&D outsourcing solutions in Japan to the biopharmaceutical and medical device industries. 

The exclusive RPS-Asklep collaboration will leverage RPS' proprietary structures and global footprint to deliver customized solutions across large, mid-size and small and virtual organizations. A breadth of options ranging from embedded, hybrid, and full-service solutions will be available to clients using best-in-class standard operating procedures, processes and systems.  Alan Morgan, RPS chief operating officer, will assume the role of chief executive officer of the joint venture, in addition to his current responsibilities.

Commenting upon the announcement Daniel Perlman, CEO and founder of RPS, said, "By combining RPS' innovative approaches to meeting the industry's needs with Asklep's excellent reputation, significant size, and local infrastructure, RPS will be positioned to meet current and future needs across the biopharmaceutical and medical device industries.  Japan is an important market for clinical development and this JVC brings ownership and accountability with mutual success and long-term stability to the benefit of customers."

Hiroshi Ichikawa, president and CEO of Asklep, said, "We are delighted to partner with RPS as it provides very unique solutions ranging from embedded, functional and cross-functional programs to enhanced global full-service solutions. Combining RPS' global solutions and Asklep's localized services, we believe the JVC will address an unmet need in Japan."