What is a contract research organization (CRO)?

A contract research organization (CRO) primarily refers to an individual or organization that undertakes trial-related duties on behalf of a sponsor. CROs provide essential services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies, which might include managing clinical trials, conducting research studies, collecting data, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. This allows sponsors to focus on drug development while leveraging the specialized expertise and resources of the CRO.

While the other options present various roles and entities involved in clinical research, they do not accurately define a CRO. For instance, a governing body for clinical trials oversees regulations and guidelines but does not conduct trials. Academic institutions may engage in research but are not synonymous with CROs, which operate as service providers. Similarly, although private companies can fund clinical trials, that function does not encapsulate the duties of a CRO, which are specifically focused on managing and executing trial procedures.