Life sciences organisations are increasingly competing for talent, with many market leaders turning to Functional Service Provider (FSP) models to effectively orchestrate their specialist workforce. FSPs are a strategic collaboration that enables organisations to tap into specialised life sciences recruitment expertise and resources, while maintaining control over core operations.

Proudly partnered with a leading US academic institution

Proclinical, part of Acacium Group, has secured a five-year FSP contract with a premier public research university. Recognised as a powerhouse of urban research, the university acquired $352.6 million for sponsored project funding in 2023 and is celebrated for its multidisciplinary approach and community engagement in tackling health disparities. 

Proclinical’s partnership will support a wide range of biopharmaceutical and academic programmes, including: 

• Clinical research coordination 
• Patient recruitment in over 100 specialised roles 
• Biometrics 
• Statistical analysis and programming 

Life sciences learnings from the Ivy Leagues

Proclincial’s FSP model has proven success in life sciences institutions across the US, including with a long-standing partnership with a private Ivy League research university. Considered one of the most prestigious research institutions in the world, its life science advancements include the pioneering CART cell therapy for cancer, the Nobel Prize-winning mRNA technology and consistently being a top recipient of funding from the National Institute of Health.

In 2022, Proclincial worked with the university to launch an FSP pilot programme. Today this partnership has expanded to 19 departments including dermatology, cancer biology, mental health and pathology, underpinned by support from more than 30 life sciences specialist recruitment consultants.

This collaboration supports pivotal clinical research at the institution, many of which utilises grants from the National Institute of Health, the Department of Health and Human Services and numerous Fortune 500 pharmaceutical companies.

Supporting the UK’s research ecosystem through FSP best practice

The UK government has a clear ambition to position the country as a global hub for life sciences. With initiatives like the Life Sciences Vision, NHS Long Term Plan and increased investment in clinical trials infrastructure, there is a growing demand for agile, scalable service models that can support both academic research and real-world clinical delivery. 

With proven success in the US, Proclinical’s FSP model can provide UK-based organisations with a flexible, scalable solution. Embedding specialist teams into the NHS, academic health science centres and research institutions will:

• Accelerate clinical trial delivery 
• Enhance patient recruitment and retention 
• Support data management, biometrics and statistical analysis 
• Bridge the gap between academic research and commercial application 

This model not only improves efficiency but also ensures that UK institutions remain globally competitive, attracting international funding, fostering innovation and ultimately improving patient outcomes. Learn more about this in our latest white paper,  ‘A blueprint for tomorrow: Futureproofing clinical research through flexible resourcing’.

Bridging transatlantic innovation 

As we continue to expand our FSP footprint in the US we are equally committed to bringing these capabilities to the UK. Our teams are well-placed to support the UK’s life sciences sector in achieving its full potential, building bridges between research and care, academia and industry.

Please reach out to Alex.Ryan@AcaciumGroup.com, Group Director of Service Development for more information about our life sciences staffing and managed services. We welcome opportunities to share our learnings and explore the art of the possible.