Multinational firm celebrates ten years in Athlone

It was Ireland’s growing pharmaceutical sector, with support from IDA, that brought PPD, a leading global contract research organisation, to the Midlands in 2010.

Since then, PPD’s operation has grown significantly – both in physical size and the number of employees – at its base in Athlone. In fact, over the past three years, the company has more than doubled its scientific staff and lab footprint, and has significantly extended its range of services.

The PPD Laboratories GMP (good manufacturing practices) lab in the Athlone Business and Technology Park has continued to expand to meet growing client demand for chemistry, manufacturing and controls (CMC) pharmaceutical development services in Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific.

Today, the operation offers integrated solutions for pharmaceutical product development, including analytical testing services, stability testing, quality control and release testing. In addition to biologic testing, the laboratory is a leading provider of the analysis of small molecule and inhaled pharmaceuticals, as well as extractables and leachables testing.

 The facility encompasses 4400 sq. metres space and employs more than 200 local professionals, which include a broad range of diverse, talented scientists. Marguerite Gately, a senior recruiter at the Athlone lab, noted: “We offer our employees a dynamic, multicultural environment with extensive training and career advancement in the ever-changing world of modern science.”

“Many of our achievements are due to our highly qualified employees,” said Chris Forsdyke, Athlone site director. “We appreciate the expertise they provide, while we are proud to be able to contribute to the scientific careers of so many exceptionally talented people.”