Celerion is celebrating its 80th anniversary operating at its facility in Lincoln, NE. Celerion provides early clinical research services from seven facilities globally, with 950 employees and a 750-bed capacity. Celerion supports the development of experimental and currently marketed drugs, including agents that treat diabetes, hypertension, blood lipid disorders, obesity, gastrointestinal conditions, respiratory diseases, inflammation, pain neurologic disease, infections, and reproductive health.
 
The operations in Lincoln began in 1933, with legacy company Harris Laboratories, and focused on the science of food testing, analysis of water and animal feeds, and later, agricultural testing. The focus expanded to healthcare in 1969 by offering comprehensive clinical research services. Celerion was formed in 2010 through the acquisition of the early stage development operations of MDS Pharma Services. Prior to that, the facility in Lincoln conducted business under the name MDS Harris, following the acquisition by MDS Inc.
 
In addition to clinical studies, clinical pharmacology data analysis and reporting, along with a large bioanalytical lab, the facility now has an on-site ADME suite capable of handling radiotracers, a USP Clean Room, and microdosing capabilities. Through an alliance with Bryan Health Hospital, which includes 24 on-site beds, provides access to their personnel and equipment, including MRI, PET scans, CT, EMG, EGD and CNS/cognitive testing.
 
“We are extremely proud of our 80-year heritage and the impact of our services globally,” said Susan Thornton Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Celerion. “Harris Laboratories was visionary in developing innovative clinical research services for the pharmaceutical industry. Celerion continues this legacy in Applied Translational Medicine by leveraging our experience, expertise, innovative technologies and access to patients earlier in clinical research.”