Neopharm Labs, a Quebec-based full-service pharmaceutical testing laboratory, has expanded into the U.S. with the acquisition of Averica Discovery Services, a contract research organization (CRO) based in the Greater Boston area specializes in early stage contract research and analytical development. The addition of Averica to Neopharm Labs’ portfolio provides an opportunity for the organization to expand its geographic reach into the U.S., allowing it to pursue its growth strategy and further increase its range of services into the region.

“We are very impressed with the knowledge and scientific track record of Dr. Jeffrey Kiplinger and the entire Averica team,” said Nicolas Fortin, president and general manager, Neopharm Labs. “The combination of the companies makes us more competitive and allows us to broaden our service offerings to the life sciences industry.  Our clients will directly benefit from the merging of our companies’ skills and talents.”

The new entity provides a range of services at every stage of the drug development cycle, from R&D to method development and validation, to stability management, and to commercial testing in chemistry and microbiology.

“Our clients can now take advantage of an expanded range of services,” said Dr. Jeffrey Kiplinger, president and chief executive officer, Averica Discovery, who joins Neopharm’s executive team as vice president, science and innovation. “With this expansion into the U.S. market, Neopharm Labs will continue building on our combined strengths and capabilities in order to provide the very best services to its customers alike.”

Averica’s Boston area laboratory will continue to provide its current services with plans to expand service offerings and lab space. The location will also serve as the U.S. sales office for Neopharm Labs.