PPD announced today that it has opened a contract research facility in Athlone, Ireland. The facility includes an 18,000-square-foot analytical testing laboratory and clinical supplies business.

“Expanding our laboratory operations into Europe enables us to continue to deliver on our strong history of providing quality work and customer service to our growing client base in this region,” said  Magdalena Mejillano, vice president of laboratory services, PPD in a press release. “The Irish government, through IDA Ireland, has provided us strong support, and we continue to benefit from Ireland's highly skilled work force and business-friendly climate. We are pleased to join Athlone's strong, growing pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sectors.”

PPD has 21 employees in Athlone with plans for 250 jobs at the laboratory to include scientists and analytical lab staff.

The facility will include integrated product and analytical development services, including method development; validation; stability, release and quality control testing; clinical supplies such as packing, labeling and storage. The facility will also provide qualified person services for all drug dosage forms, with an emphasis on inhalation and biopharmaceutical products, according to a press release.