Company plans 320 jobs in St. Charles

Pharma Medica Research Inc., a contract research organization serving the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry, plans to make a $30.8 million investment and create 320 jobs at its first U.S. facility in St. Charles.

"This substantial investment will further strengthen Missouri's position as a leader in bioscience, one of the key industries identified by our Strategic Initiative for Economic Growth," said Gov. Jay Nixon when making the announcement on Oct. 3. "By creating hundreds of high-paying jobs to this area, Pharma Medica Research joins other bioscience companies expanding their footprint in the Show-Me State including Monsanto, Pioneer Hi- Bred and Boehringer-Ingelheim Vetmedica.

"By maintaining strict fiscal discipline and using proven strategies to attract new businesses to our state, we are paving the way for continued growth and job creation. I'm proud to welcome Pharma Medica Research Inc. to Missouri."

The Toronto-based company conducts research and development for pharmaceutical companies and also performs trials. It offers a range of services in this space including scientific affairs, medical writing, clinical conduct, bioanalysis, biostastics, data management and clinical trial monitoring.

The company plans to rehabilitate a building, which previously housed a clinical research organization, to expand its drug trial operations. Earlier this year, Nixon met with company officials at the 2013 International BIO Convention in Chicago to discuss opportunities for growth in Missouri.

"The favorable business climate, quality workforce and the close proximity to major pharmaceutical companies in the area were key factors in making the move to Missouri," said Mohammed Bouhajib of Pharma Medica Research Inc. "With a new research center in St. Charles, we will be able to accommodate more clients and compete in the global market."

"We are delighted to have Pharma Medica Research Inc. join our business community here in the city of St. Charles," Mayor Sally Faith said. "Their presence in the field of clinical research will further diversify and strengthen the local workforce, enhancing an already solid health care and manufacturing base, and further bolstering economic development through job creation."

To assist Pharma Medica Research Inc. in moving forward with its growth plans, the company has been offered a strategic economic incentive package from the state that it can receive if it meets job creation and investment criteria.