Headlands Research

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Overview

Headlands Research is a globally integrated clinical trial site organization headquartered in San Francisco, California. Founded in 2018, the organization has rapidly expanded its network to include over 21 sites across the United States and Canada. The company focuses on large-volume recruitment and retention of diverse populations in clinical trials, thereby enhancing the representation and inclusivity of study participants. Headlands Research was founded by Mark Blumling and its operations are supported by the private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR).

Recent Developments

  • December 2024: Headlands Research continues its commitment to diversity in clinical trials through partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies. Its latest site in El Paso, Texas, specifically targets underrepresented Hispanic communities.
  • November 2024: Acquired Trial Management Associates, expanding its reach in North and South Carolina. This acquisition strengthens its geographic footprint and therapeutic expertise in core clinical areas.
  • September 2024: Launched a new site in El Paso, enhancing recruitment for metabolic and endocrine trials. Ryan Casey, M.D., leads this site, focusing on recruiting from the underserved Hispanic population in the region.
  • March 2024: Opened the fifth site in partnership with Pfizer in Orlando. This site aims to increase diversity within clinical trials and reaches out to Black and Hispanic communities.
  • February 2024: Acquired Pharmasite Research, enhancing its therapeutic expertise in psychiatry and CNS disorders. This acquisition is part of the organization's strategy to broaden its capabilities in key therapeutic areas.
  • July 2023: Acquisition of AMCR Institute, adding medical device expertise to its clinical research capabilities.
  • May 2023: Acquired Clinvest Research in Springfield, Missouri, which specializes in chronic disease trials including diabetes and migraine.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2018
HeadquartersSan Francisco, California, USA
FoundersMark Blumling
RevenueN/A
ProfitsN/A
Key InvestorsKohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR)
IndustryClinical Research Organization
Number of Employees550+

Early History

Headlands Research was established in 2018 with the mission to improve the quality of clinical research by integrating sites under the umbrella of a single organization focused on diversity and inclusivity. Mark Blumling, the founder, set out to establish a network that could support large-scale and diverse clinical trials. The company quickly identified the need for a diverse patient base, acquiring sites that specialize in areas with high minority populations and thus addressing a significant gap in the clinical trial process.

Company Profile and Achievements

Headlands Research operates a robust network of clinical trial sites focusing on therapeutic areas ranging from mental health to metabolic diseases. The company's strategy involves:

  • Rapid site acquisition to expand its research capabilities across North America.
  • Multi-year partnerships with pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer to establish diversity-focused trial sites.
  • Recruitment of diverse and inclusive populations using extensive site databases and partnerships with physicians.
  • Specialized principal investigators and key opinion leaders drive high-quality data collection and participant retention.
  • Surpassing 5,000 clinical trials in various therapeutic areas since its inception.

Current Operations and Market Position

Headlands Research's strategic positioning in the clinical research industry is marked by its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The company currently operates over 21 sites across the U.S. and Canada, emphasizing recruitment from underrepresented populations to ensure more comprehensive clinical trial data. Its partnership with Pfizer and the establishment of new clinical trial sites in areas like Orlando and El Paso exemplify its dedication to this mission. This approach places Headlands Research as a leader in creating equitable healthcare solutions through improved clinical research.

Conclusion

Headlands Research has swiftly grown to become a pivotal player in the clinical trial site industry, leveraging its strategic focus on diversity, inclusion, and high-quality data. Its ongoing expansion through acquisitions and partnerships reinforces its commitment to enhancing the representativeness of populations in clinical trials. As it continues to grow its network and deepen its industry partnerships, Headlands Research is poised to significantly impact the global landscape of clinical research, driving forward more inclusive medical advancements.

References

  1. Headlands Research Official Site
  2. Informa Connect - Headlands Research El Paso Launch
  3. Clinical Trials Arena - Headlands and Pfizer Partnership
  4. PitchBook Profile on Headlands Research