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8 BioPharm International ® Partnerships for Outsourcing eBook May 2023 www.biopharminternational.com A dvanced therapeutic medicinal products (ATMPs) are experiencing a boom, with the global pipeline continuing to experi- ence growth and more than 3700 ATMPs currently under development, according to data from the American Society of Gene and Cell Thera- py (1). However, progressing such complex therapies that target niche disease areas through to commer- cialization produces a unique set of challenges (2). Critically, the technical expertise required for the clin- ical research of ATMPs is something that can be lacking for developers in-house, driving demand for contract research organizations (CRO). In fact, the cell and gene therapy CRO market is forecast to experience continued and consistent growth until 2035 (3). "The pipeline for advanced therapies is very active and growing but at the same time there continues to be a short- age of skilled professionals [in this area]," explains Rhonda Henry, president of Emmes BioPharma—a global full ser- vice CRO. "The shortage of experienced clinical research professionals is negatively impacting the entire drug de- velopment ecosystem. It is difficult for pharma/biotech to hire staff with such niche expertise which makes CROs so attractive. CROs are in the resourcing business." Fierce competition Talent acquisition and retention can be challenging across the board within the ATMP sector—for pharma/ biotech companies and CROs alike—meaning that effec- tive resource planning and management are critical to businesses, confirms Henry. "CROs need to understand the workforce and what is important to attract and re- tain talent. Competitive compensation, benefits, and the ability to work remotely are essential," she says. "Rather than investing in brick-and-mortar facilities, providing better technology to enable employees to work more ef- ficiently is key. Providing opportunities to train on the job through internships and establishing relationships with local academic institutions enable CROs to build their workforce organically." CROs Gaining a Competitive Edge Felicity Thomas, is senior editor. Shifting toward more technological solutions and ensuring a greater understanding of the workforce's needs will give both CROs and sponsors a market advantage. VITALII VODOL AZSKYI - STOCK.ADOBE.COM