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June 14, 2024

Celebrating 25 years of innovation in biotechnology: Sermes CRO at the presentation of the Asebio 2023 report

We attended the presentation of the Asebio 2023 Report, an essential event for the Spanish biotechnology sector. This year is particularly special as Asebio celebrates its 25th anniversary, and at Sermes CRO, we are proud to be part of this ecosystem, having been in the industry for 27 years. The advancements and achievements in this sector are impressive, with collaboration being a crucial pillar.

By Sermes Cro

Titled “25 Years of Biotechnology,” the Asebio 2023 Report is a special edition that not only presents the latest indicators of the sector, as has been customary for the past quarter-century, but also offers a historical comparison with data from 1999. This approach highlights the profound transformation the biotechnology sector in Spain has undergone. In her opening speech, Rocío Arroyo, President of Asebio and CEO of Amadix, emphasized how the Asebio community has grown and strengthened over the years, driving scientific and biotechnological advances that have significantly impacted our lives.

In 2022, biotechnology companies in Spain generated over 16.6 billion euros, contributing 1.5% of the national GDP. This growth was also reflected in tax revenue, which reached 6.483 billion euros, and in the creation of 162,845 jobs, representing 0.85% of total employment in the country. These figures underscore the economic and social importance of the biotechnology sector.

The Importance of Investment in R&D

The private investment attracted by the sector reached a historic high in 2023, with more than 228 million euros in 42 deals. This 37% increase compared to the previous year highlights investors’ confidence in the potential of biotechnology. Additionally, the participation of international investors, who contributed nearly 150 million euros in capital expansions, is a clear signal of the competitiveness and attractiveness of the Spanish biotechnology sector on a global scale.

In terms of R&D investment, biotechnology companies accounted for 6.3% of the national total investment in this area, allocating 1.218 billion euros in 2022. This investment effort is largely financed with their own funds, demonstrating the companies’ commitment and confidence in their projects and capabilities.

The Role of Sermes CRO: 27 Years of Innovation in Clinical Research

As one of the sponsors of the Asebio 2023 Report, at Sermes CRO, we feel particularly represented when accounting for the achievements and growth of the biotechnology sector. From our humble beginnings in 1997, we have grown and evolved alongside the industry, adapting to technological changes and expanding our capabilities to offer quality clinical research services, adapted to modern times and optimized with the latest technology and the high qualifications of our employees.

“Our trajectory reflects a constant dedication to innovation,” explains Antonio Berlanga, CEO of Sermes CRO. “From the early days of recording data for large pharmaceutical companies to our current position as a CRO with more than 200 employees and a presence in Europe and the United States, we have worked tirelessly to improve people’s quality of life through science and technology.”

Today, Sermes CRO has specialized units in various areas, including the European Clinical Trials Information System (CTIS), clinical consulting, and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the healthcare sector. “Our expertise in AI has enabled us to develop solutions that optimize clinical research, accelerate patient recruitment, and ensure the security and privacy of information,” emphasizes the CEO of the company.

A Healthy Ecosystem that Promotes the “One Health” Concept

The presentation event of the Asebio 2023 Report was not only an opportunity to celebrate past achievements but also to look to the future with optimism. Biotechnology continues to be a science-intensive sector with high demand for researchers, with 13.77% of employees dedicated to research. This talent intensity is crucial for maintaining the pace of innovation and continuing to advance in critical areas such as human health, food, and environmental sustainability.

At Sermes CRO, we share Asebio’s vision of a better future driven by biotechnology. We understand that progress in this sector depends on a suitable ecosystem that fosters collaboration among companies, public and private institutions, and the scientific community. Our participation in the presentation of the Asebio 2023 Report and our role as sponsors reflect our commitment to this vision.

Cristina Nadal, Executive Director of Policy at MSD in Spain, highlighted the importance of innovation, biotechnology, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address current and future societal challenges. At Sermes CRO, we firmly believe in this approach and are dedicated to working together to find solutions that improve health and quality of life.

The representation of women in the biotechnology sector is also notable. For the past seven years, women have constituted more than 50% of the workforce in the sector, and in 2022, they represented 53%. In R&D activities, 60% of the personnel are women, and they hold 29.2% of the managerial positions. This gender parity is a positive indicator of the sector’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. “At Sermes CRO, we align with this reality as our female employees represent 80% of our workforce,” emphasizes Antonio Berlanga, CEO of Sermes CRO.