PRA, a leading clinical research organization, today announced that it has changed its name to PRA Health Sciences (PRA). The name change to PRA Health Sciences is the culmination of several strategic actions which support and enhance the company’s commitment to the future of clinical development.  

Starting over 18 months ago, PRA strategically strengthened its coverage of China and created a joint venture with the leading clinical development firm in China, forming WuXiPRA. PRA then bolstered its capabilities in Russia and Eastern Europe by acquiring ClinStar, the premier provider of CRO services in Russia and Eastern Europe. With the subsequent acquisition of RPS, the pioneer of the Embedded Solutions™ model, PRA enhanced its ability to offer a more comprehensive breadth of services across all segments of the biopharmaceutical industry.  At the close of 2013, PRA purchased CRI Lifetree, which augmented its existing Phase I and bioanalytical capabilities, cementing PRA as the most comprehensive, high-end Phase I organization in the world. 

"The expansion of our global presence, the growth in our breadth of services, and the deepening of our capabilities we initiated over the last year-and-a-half enable us to better serve our clients," said Colin Shannon, president and CEO, PRA Health Sciences. "This change to our name reflects our historical roots as a scientifically rich company, the breadth and depth of our solutions, and most importantly, our dedication to working with sponsors to bring new treatments to market that will positively impact the lives of patients and their families.”  

As one unified company with a broad range of specific expertise, PRA is well-equipped and intently focused on working to improve the lives of patients and providing innovative solutions that will drive the future of clinical development.

In addition to the new name, PRA is introducing a new website more reflective of the company today. This new interactive, website can be experienced at: www.prahs.com