Encorium Group, a contract research organization, appointed Philip Calamia as its interim CFO, effective May 2, 2008. Encorium is continuing its search for a permanent CFO and hopes to provide an update in the coming weeks. Calamia is a partner of the consultancy firm Penn Valley Group (PVG). Here’s the release.

Alcon’s approval of Patanase (olopatadine hydrochloride), a nasal spray to treat allergies, was supported by invivodata’s electronic patient diaries. “We needed an efficient and specific data collection method that was easy for patients and investigative site personnel to use,” said Alcon’s G. Michael Wall, senior director, pharmaceutical product development. “invivodata met our tight enrollment time lines and delivered the scientific expertise and technology that were important to the success of this program.” It’s the second such announcement for the Pittsburgh electronic patient-reported outcome firm this week. Here’s the FDA label for the drug, revised in 2008.

XClinical, a supplier of electronic data capture, announced that its Marvin software will be used in a European multi-centric clinical trial conducted by its Munich-based customer, Oncology Services Europe (OSE). The study will take place in 20 countries and involve up to 160 sites. There’s a testimonial quotation from the unidentified sponsor here.

RPS announced the addition of two new members to its senior management team. David Green joins RPS as VP of clinical operations, and Neil Shusterman joins RPS as senior VP, medical, regulatory and drug safety. “We are pleased that both Dr. David Green and Dr. Neil Shusterman have joined the RPS organization. Both individuals bring significant industry and drug development experience that will further enhance the depth and breadth of our clinical organizational leadership and expertise,” said Harris Koffer, president and COO. “Under their leadership, I am confident that we will continue to expand our capabilities to provide innovative, global clinical development solutions to our customers.” Here’s the release.

Criterium, a New York contract research organization (CRO), will open an office in Toronto. Criterium already has three Canadian clients that have been conducting studies in Canada. “We went to areas where our sponsors asked us to and where we could have the Criterium style and do it. We’re doing it. In 2007, we were on the runway, and in 2008, we just took off,” said Ronny Schnel, executive director, business development and client services for Criterium. Here’s the article.

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