Irish clinical trials group Icon has been chosen by Bristol-Myers Squibb as a preferred provider for early-stage clinical development services. The two firms already have an agreement to provide global support for Bristol-Myers Squibb’s clinical development pipeline.

Icon president Dr Mario Rocci said the latest deal, covering clinical pharmacology and exploratory clinical studies, would bring cost savings and efficiencies to Bristol-Myers Squibb.

“Both companies already have a very successful global partnership for phase II-IV clinical development and central laboratory service,” he said.