The Institute of Clinical Research (ICR), the largest professional clinical research body in Europe, will soon start operations in India to train professionals and to raise the standards of clinical research activities in India.

As a prelude to this, ICR will soon form an Indian Advisory Board to lead the activities of the Institute in India. ICR's chief executive Dr John Hooper and board member Alan Needham are visiting New Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai from 14th November to meet key players in clinical research from the government, academia and industry to discuss how the ICR can help in developing professionals, sharing knowledge and raising standards. They are also participating in the 'Workshop on Global Clinical Trials in India - Prospects and Challenges" organised by the FICCI (Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry) in New Delhi.

"India is seen as a key emerging destination for conducting clinical trials. There is great interest in the ICR's expertise, including its long established programmes which are now increasingly delivered through e-learning and its openness to sharing knowledge and information resulting in higher standards of clinical trials", said Dr John Hooper.

The Institute of Clinical Research (ICR), formerly known as ACRPI, was established in 1978. It is now recognised as the professional body for clinical research scientists in the UK. The organisation strives to enhance the standards of clinical research carried out on behalf of the pharmaceutical industry and academic institutions, and to advance the professional competence of members. In collaboration with other professional bodies, the Institute has developed a range of operational standards in clinical research and also runs a continuing professional development (CPD) scheme.