LONDON and BOSTON, Mass.—Ora, a global ophthalmic contract research organization (CRO), has partnered with the Institute of Eye Surgery, Ireland’s largest private ophthalmology service provider, according to a joint statement from the two companies. This strategic partnership arrives at a pivotal time for European clinical research, with collaborations across the industry accelerating the delivery of new therapies to the market for challenging ophthalmic diseases, according to the announcement. The organizations said that with the Republic of Ireland emerging as a promising hub for clinical trials, this partnership positions the Institute of Eye Surgery as a leading center for innovative clinical research.

“As the global leader in ophthalmology research, we are honored to support many of the most impactful development programs in Europe,” said Paul Colvin, Ora's CEO. “Ora’s top-tier approach to site collaboration and operational excellence, coupled with the reach and research infrastructure established by the Institute of Eye Surgery in Ireland, will provide our sponsors with optimized patient access and high-quality clinical data, ensuring each drug and device program has the best chance of success.”

Ora and the Institute of Eye Surgery will provide operational excellence delivered by a seasoned team of ophthalmology-focused resources committed to delivering trials with speed, efficiency, quality and cost-effectiveness for sponsors considering trials with clinical sites in Ireland, according to the statement. The companies will also offer access to a diverse group of highly motivated study participants eager to receive new treatment options in ophthalmology.

“We are delighted to partner with one of the leading names in ophthalmology research, Ora, to advance our shared vision of transparently and ethically conducting clinical research that inures to the benefit of our patients,” said Dr. Eugene Ng, cataract and vitreo retinal specialist at the Institute of Eye Surgery. “With our clinical sites strategically positioned across the Republic of Ireland and our vast experience in conducting sponsor-initiated and investigator-initiated trials, this partnership will further strengthen our research and clinical trials department in terms of increasing patient’s access to novel treatments.”