Pharmaceutical Research

Pharmaceutical research aims for higher returns
By Katherine Kay Pharmaceutical analytics and research is in the business of developing medications that are an improvement over yesterday’s drugs. Research and development in the United States emphasizes originality, as well as consistent methodical processes. One of the ways that a company sees growth and progress is through professional and systematic R&D.
 

Biotech research involves science and math. Most companies spend about 5% of their revenue on R&D. Pharmaceutical companies and a number of other industries such as software and semiconductors usually spend a lot more. Consider the following when thinking about drug development:

1. Find pharmaceutical companies engaged in basic research.

2. Use applied clinical research organizations to find products and services.

3. Get education and training in the pharmaceutical industry.

Find institutions engaged in basic pharmaceutical research development

Basic research is the kind of research often pursued by government, education and larger businesses. This research will help many people in many ways over the long term.
Try: The Center for Biotechnology in New York is doing basic research in pharmaceuticals. SAIC-Frederick does basic research, as well, with federally funds. This company does cancer drug research.

Look at the clinical trials and pharmaceutical products at these applied research companies

Applied research is the kind of research that companies do to improve the bottom line. By doing so, companies grow and progress as they discover and implement improved products.
Try: CAPSUGEL is a pharma analytics and applied research center. They engage in pre-clinical and commercial production of powder-filled and lipid-based systems. They partner with clients in formulation and development manufacturing. IGORi performs applications and analysis in polymer solubility studies, drug substance extraction, protein absorption, polymer derivation and characterization, quantitative solubility mapping, and protein separation among other things. Rocky Mountain Instrumental Labs performs drug R&D work using reverse engineering and detection techniques. IonGate Biosciences provides applied science services in assay developments and target characterization. They develop instruments for drug screening, especially instruments that investigate electrically active proteins, especially transporters.

Find helpful drug research resources and information

Research and development is a process that involves investigation and creative discovery. That's why resources with a wealth of information have popped up on the Internet that help people and businesses find technically specific information.
Try: The Rosenthal Center is a pharmaceutical and alternative medicine resource site for women. The FDA website has tables, charts, and all kinds of information about drug research and development.

• Governmental, educational and big business institutions will have funds for basic research. Smaller companies generally do applied research, but the budget is more limited. If you are a smaller company, be sure to talk to a pharma clinical research business consultant about how much money your company should apply to clinical research and development to stay current and competitive. Pharmaceutical companies generally spend more than the 5% most companies spend on R&D.