More patients than ever before consider clinical research as a legitimate care option, and, despite the threat of an uncertain Brexit, the UK continues to be viewed as one of the best countries in the world to carry out research. In our cover feature (p27), John Pinching considers the path of clinical research, both past and future, and the significance of the emerging ‘parity between the probed and the probers’.

On page 34, there’s an interesting take on the rise of life science ecosystems. Advances in information technology over the last two decades are fuelling a shift away from the era of large corporations thriving on in-house R&D and towards the formation of loosely coupled life sciences networks with innate ability to adapt within a constantly changing competitive environment.

Elsewhere, flying the flag for social responsibility, Gilead’s Alex Kalomparis (p20) emphasises the role of pharma beyond healthcare, outlining the need for the sector to ensure that it actively supports and encourages change-makers, with longevity and the next generation in mind.

Finally, PharmaTimes is excited to announce the launch of the 2020 International Clinical Researcher of the Year competition, which is now open for entry. The competition, now in its 21st year, offers a wonderful opportunity to benchmark skills against the best in the field and stay up to date with the latest industry trends. Also of note, there’s still time to enter the 2019 PharmaTimes Medical and Scientific Excellence Awards! For more information, visit www.pharmatimes.com/competitions.

I hope you enjoy the issue!