With an aim of positioning India as the preferred destination for the science and business of clinical research, the Institute of Clinical Research (India) is all set to host the fifth global conference on "clinical research and drug development - business models and opportunities" from October 10 to 11, 2008 at the Hotel InterContinental, The Grand, Mumbai. Sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, this two-day conference is expected to draw more than 400 delegates.

About 10 international keynote speakers from US, Canada and UK, apart from highly acclaimed and eminent speakers from Indian pharmaceutical companies, contract/clinical research organisations and regulatory bodies, are expected to share their views and opinion in this conclave.

The conference would also feature scientific sessions on the different streams of clinical research operations, pharmacovigilance, clinical data management, regulatory affairs and submission with special emphasis on phase one clinical trials and business opportunities for allied players in the clinical research industry.

"The participants will have an opportunity to deliberate and discuss with the keynote speakers and a group of professional with common interests. The conference is designed for expert level professionals in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical devices, government, support services/products, academia, logistics, venture capitalists, bank, insurance and related healthcare industries," said the organisers.