Headlands Research Expands Network to Puerto Rico, Enhancing Clinical Trial Diversity

Headlands Research, a prominent clinical trial site network, has made a strategic move into the Caribbean market by acquiring CMRCenter (CMRC) in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This acquisition marks a significant expansion for the company, which previously operated exclusively in the United States and Canada.

Expanding Access to Diverse Patient Populations

The acquisition of CMRC is part of Headlands Research's ongoing efforts to increase diversity in clinical trials. By integrating CMRC's expertise in Puerto Rico's cultural and regulatory landscape with Headlands' centralized quality systems and technological investments, the company aims to provide trial sponsors with access to a large Hispanic population under FDA regulation.

Kyle Burtnett, CEO of Headlands Research, emphasized the strategic importance of this move: "CMRC's proven performance in CNS, vaccine and specialty trials, combined with its deep ties to Puerto Rico's diverse, FDA-regulated patient community, gives sponsors a seamless, single-contract path to high-quality enrollment in a priority market."

Expanding Therapeutic Reach and Research Capabilities

The San Juan site brings valuable experience in conducting trials across various therapeutic areas, including early Alzheimer's disease, rheumatology, and migraine. This expertise complements Headlands Research's existing portfolio and enhances its ability to serve a broader range of clinical research needs.

Carmen Navarro, founder and CEO of CMRC, expressed enthusiasm about the merger: "By joining the Headlands Research site network, we expand that commitment, offering our community earlier access to innovative therapies, broadening the therapeutic areas we serve and adding Puerto Rico's diverse voice to global studies that will benefit patients everywhere."

With the addition of CMRC, Headlands Research now operates a network of 22 sites, further solidifying its position as a leader in the clinical trial industry. This expansion follows the company's recent establishment of another site focused on Hispanic patient populations in El Paso, Texas, demonstrating a consistent strategy to enhance trial diversity and reach underrepresented communities.