Manipal AcuNova is 'India's best emerging CRO according to a survey conducted by Proximare. Proximare Inc is a New Jersey based management consulting firm that develops and implements growth strategies for pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

The survey was based on the analysis of thirty three contract research organisations (CROs) operating in India's clinical research industry. Benchmarking of every CRO was done on five key elements - management, project experience, manpower, infrastructure and financial strength.

"Access to patients and experienced investigators is key to research and Manipal AcuNova has access to the Manipal Teaching Hospitals. This award encourages us to aim high in the future," said D A Prasanna, vice chairman and managing director, Manipal AcuNova.

Manipal AcuNova is a joint venture between Manipal Education and Medical Group and AcuNova. It is a single source provider of clinical research and related services

The company's clinical research clients include leading companies such as Quintiles, Ranbaxy, Biocon and Novartis amongst others. Manipal AcuNova partners with the University of Minnesota and National Centre of Biological Sciences in research, an official release said.