Drug Information Association (DIA) Opens New Office In China

Main Category: Pharma Industry / Biotech Industry
Article Date: 19 Nov 2008 - 4:00 PDT

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The Drug Information Association (DIA), the premier, multidisciplinary, non-profit association that provides a neutral forum for the exchange of information critical to the advancement of the drug discovery and lifecycle management processes, has opened an office in Beijing, China.

"China's pharmaceutical industry has become a major force in drug discovery and development," explains William Brassington, Acting DIA Worldwide Executive Director. "As the premier provider of neutral global forums for the exchange of information, education, and training, it is imperative that we solidify our presence in the region."

DIA's regional office in China adds another dimension to DIA's worldwide operations. DIA's headquarters in Horsham, PA (USA) is supported by regional offices in Basel, Switzerland, Tokyo, Japan, and Mumbai, India.

"DIA's success in China depends on our ability to engage local thought leaders in DIA's unique educational and networking events, where they will be able to exchange professional experiences," says Marie Dray, President, DIA Board of Directors.

The Provisional Advisory Council of China (pACC) was established in May 2008 and will continue to provide support and strategic oversight for DIA's presence in China. The pACC will focus on developing a strong membership and volunteer base, strategic alliances, conferences and training programs, and local and student chapters. DIA Board Member Ling Su, PhD, Vice President, Clinical Research & Development - Asia Pacific, Wyeth, China, is pACC chair.

"An influx of western-trained scientists and increased access to global markets are extending the development opportunities available in China," says Ling Su. "DIA's presence in China will certainly contribute to meeting the enormous needs in training, education, and information sharing and exchange in global drug development and access to new medicines. DIA will follow the same successful formula used in North America, Europe, Japan, and India while working collaboratively with the SFDA, the China-based pharmaceutical industry, CROs, research institutions and other stakeholders."

In China, DIA has partnered with the Kellen Company to provide management and logistical support. With offices in the U.S., Europe, and China, Kellen offers a complete range of services to international, national and regional associations, professional societies, foundations, and businesses. Kellen will provide:

- Full office outsourced management of DIA in China
- Management and logistical support for pACC activities
- Conference and training course organization and support
- Membership development and recruitment

"DIA is confident that Dr. Ling Su, with the support of an outstanding headquarters team and an experienced local agency, will lead DIA's volunteer advisory council in China in an effort to expand our capabilities in the region," explains Dray.

About the Drug Information Association (DIA)

DIA serves more than 30,000 professionals in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and regulatory industries worldwide. Through its domestic and international meetings, training courses, workshops and webinars, DIA provides a neutral global forum for the exchange of information critical to the advancement of the drug discovery and lifecycle management processes. Headquartered in Horsham, PA (USA), and with offices in Basel, Switzerland, Tokyo, Japan, Mumbai, India, and Beijing, China, the Association is led by its volunteer-based Board of Directors and executive management team. For more information, visit http://www.diahome.org or call 215-442-6100.

Drug Information Association