The Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO) has elected new officers for 2007. Jeffrey McMullen, president and chief executive officer of PharmaNet Development Group, was elected chair of ACRO in December 2006. David Spaight, president of MDS Pharma Services, will serve as chair-elect of the association. Mr. McMullen and Mr. Spaight are respected leaders of the CRO industry who have been part of the association's efforts to educate stakeholders on the benefits of clinical outsourcing and the expertise CROs provide in clinical trials.

"As ACRO celebrates its fifth anniversary this year, the association will continue to provide a unified presence and voice as the principal organization representing the CRO industry," said Mr. McMullen. "In 2007, we will increase ACRO's role as a leader in discussions around patient safety, regulatory issues in the US and abroad, and the development of research best practices."

"ACRO's member companies are committed to demonstrating the growing importance of our industry to the development of new drugs and biomedical products," added Mr. Spaight. "We encourage other CROs to consider membership in ACRO so that they might contribute their energies, perspectives and leadership to this effort."