Viroclinics and DDL join forces

ROTTERDAM, the Netherlands—Viroclinics Biosciences, a leading virology contract research organization (CRO), announced recently that it had acquired DDL Diagnostic Laboratory, a leading diagnostic solutions provider. The transaction enhances the combined group’s leading global position in antiviral and vaccine testing and will serve to accelerate their ambitious growth strategy. Financial details are not disclosed.

Viroclinics was founded in 2001 and specializes in the fields of virology and global logistics services. DDL was founded in 1994 and is an expert laboratory in advanced (molecular) diagnostic testing. Both companies operate globally, serving leading biopharmaceutical companies active in the field of microbial vaccines and antivirals.

Viroclinics is the global leader in influenza and other viral targets, such as respiratory syncytial virus and polio, while DDL also specializes in the fields of hepatitis and human papillomavirus. The combined organization will operate from four testing laboratories located in Europe and China, with access to a global network of processing facilities across 20 countries to coordinate sample collection in strategic regions worldwide to serve global trials.

“By joining with DDL, we will enhance Viroclinics’ leading position as a specialized contract research organization, adding to our service offering, capacity and geographic presence,” said Dr. Bob van Gemen, CEO of Viroclinics Biosciences, who will serve as CEO of the combined organization. “I look forward to working with the DDL team and continuing to build on our leading global position as a virology CRO.”

“This is an exciting milestone for DDL. Our mission has been clear since the start of our company: to be a premier service provider in the global pharma services sector, with a focus on molecular diagnostics in infectious diseases,” said Dr. Leen-Jan van Doorn, chief business officer and co-founder of DDL.

The joint strengths and capabilities—as well as increased laboratory capacity—of the new group, is expected to create a more complete portfolio of services for clients, from early-stage preclinical work to large-scale Phase 2/3 trials, in addition to as post-marketing studies. The combined business will employ 240 specialized scientists, researchers, technicians and support staff.

“We believe the market opportunity is enormous,” added van Gemen. “Together, the Viroclinics and DDL teams will continue to invest in virology, adjacent and novel therapeutic fields, with the goal of serving a growing global client base.”