Inaugural CRO Summit Seeks To Boost Collaboration Between Sponsors And Clinical Research Organizations

The first Clinical Outsourcing Group: CRO Summit was held in Raleigh on December 3-4, 2024, attracting over 200 attendees to advance sponsor-CRO collaboration and innovation in clinical trials. Led by Innovaderm Research’s CMO, Jasmina Jankicevic, the event emphasized improving efficiencies, reducing costs, and accelerating innovative therapies for patients.

Key discussions highlighted leveraging technology and AI to optimize clinical trials. Experts explored AI’s potential for improving patient recruitment, site selection, protocol design, and risk prediction. However, they advised cautious adoption, noting the limitations of flawed datasets and the importance of small-scale projects with clear ROI. Attendees were encouraged to integrate AI into existing systems to maximize adoption and enhance patient interaction.

A C-suite panel discussed navigating industry challenges, such as evolving funding models and healthcare dynamics, while urging CROs to focus on high-value work, including site relationship building. The exhibition featured 19 leading vendors showcasing enabling technologies, such as patient recruitment tools, data management systems, and eClinical solutions.

The summit also offered ample networking opportunities, capitalizing on Raleigh’s prominence as a CRO hub. Organizers announced plans to return to Raleigh in December 2025 and launch an inaugural European CRO Summit in Amsterdam that September.

By fostering collaboration, exploring technological advancements, and addressing industry challenges, the CRO Summit is set to become a pivotal event for transforming clinical research practices globally.