Merck and PAREXEL International Corp. have entered into an alliance under which PAREXEL will provide access to global clinical development services for designated biosimilar candidates to Merck BioVentures, a division of Merck.

PAREXEL will provide access to regulatory strategy and clinical development planning capabilities for the development of various classes of biosimilars across multiple therapeutic areas, including exclusivity for certain candidates. The agreement also provides for the establishment of a dedicated Merck BioVentures unit within the PAREXEL organization.

“PAREXEL has extensive, industry-leading experience with biosimilar development, and we truly understand the scientific complexities, and regulatory pathways involved,” said Josef von Rickenbach, chairman and chief executive officer of PAREXEL. “We are committed to working with Merck BioVentures to assist in advancing its biosimilar portfolio in this rapidly developing market segment for the benefit of patients worldwide.”

“Through this agreement, Merck BioVentures has secured broad strategic access to PAREXEL’s proven biosimilar clinical development experience,” said Michael Kamarck, president of Merck BioVentures. “This agreement positions Merck BioVentures for success with an industry leading partner that has the expertise and resources to conduct clinical development of our diverse portfolio of candidates to allow timely delivery of products to the marketplace.”