The SGS CPU has been active in early-phase clinical research for 30 years, where therapeutic drugs and vaccines are tested on healthy volunteers. Currently, the CPU is actively involved in several clinical trials in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, the SGS CPU has been conducting Human Challenge Trials (HCT) studies in its specially equipped 20-bed isolation unit for the past five years. HCTs, or controlled human infection models (CHIMs), validate the efficiency of a drug through realistic studies. For example, challenge studies with a self-developed weakened H3N2 (flu) virus as well as the first malaria challenge study in Belgium were carried out last year.

SGS Clinical Research is a contract research organization (CRO) that provides clinical research services and bioanalytical tests for Phase I through Phase IV clinical trials, specializing in infectious diseases, respiratory diseases and vaccines. As a leading CRO in the life sciences industry, SGS has more than 35 years of experience in clinical research and is perfectly placed to support biotech and pharmaceutical companies in designing and conducting clinical trials in accordance with the relevant regulations.