GLSA Accelerated Partnering Session Recap
Event Date: August 2025
This month’s GLSA Accelerated Partnering Session participants came together for a focused exchange of ideas across the life sciences industry. Overall, the session explored clinical research site solutions, patient recruitment strategies, and early-phase trial opportunities. In addition, speakers examined how technology can improve efficiency across the life sciences ecosystem.
With the GLSA network now spanning more than 200 Network Partners—including advisors, consultants, vendors, and service providers across pre-clinical and clinical research—GLSA continues to support early-stage biotechs, mid-size pharma, and global pharmaceutical companies with scalable, flexible solutions.
Networking and Industry Insights
To begin, the session opened with welcoming remarks from Chris Matheus and Denise McNerney. Together, they highlighted the growing momentum of GLSA’s networking initiatives. These include the monthly Accelerated Partnering Sessions and the Women of Life Sciences group.
Next, Chris emphasized the importance of relationships in life sciences. In particular, he noted that drug development is complex and requires strong collaboration. Additionally, he also shared recent funding news from Hatteras Venture Partners. Notably, the firm announced more than $200 million to support biotech, medtech, and healthcare companies.
Meanwhile, Freddy Byrth addressed the current investment climate. While he acknowledged an increase in funding discussions, he also cautioned that follow-through remains a challenge. Ultimately, this reflects continued uncertainty across the broader industry.
Spotlight on Site Solutions
Following the opening discussion, the spotlight segment focused on improving clinical trial operations and site performance. Throughout this portion, presenters shared practical and scalable approaches.
- First, Arati Bosale (Sieve Health) focused on process optimization and technology integration. Specifically, she shared strategies to streamline workflows. As a result, sites can operate more efficiently using practical, tech-enabled solutions.
- Next, Maria Frane (SPRS for Trials) addressed patient recruitment and retention. Importantly, she emphasized the need for multifaceted strategies. These approaches, she explained, help engage participants effectively and support long-term trial success.
- After that, Bill Dirkes, MD(Docutrial) introduced his company’s e-source, e-reg, and CTMS platform. The system captures both structured data and contextual information. He noted that patients often provide unscripted responses. Capturing real-world nuance is essential for improving trial outcomes.
- Additionally, Sara Tylosky (Farmacon) highlighted Latin America as a growing region for early-phase trials. For example, she cited cost efficiency and high-quality data. Furthermore, she noted a strong network of experienced, regulatory-approved sites. Importantly, she addressed safety concerns and clarified that FDA IND filings are not required for first-in-human trials in the region.
- Finally, Gerald Minuk, MD (Refuah Solutions) discussed tools that help sites navigate operational challenges. In particular, he emphasized tailored solutions. These approaches, he explained, align site capabilities with sponsor and CRO expectations.
Challenges and Key Considerations
Participants explored several pressing issues facing the industry today:
- Data integrity: First, platforms must capture both structured and contextual patient data.
- Patient recruitment: Meanwhile, finding healthy volunteers remains difficult in saturated U.S. and EU markets.
- Regional barriers: Additionally, misperceptions about safety, data quality, and culture continue to limit adoption of Latin American sites.
- Fractional site support: As a result, GLSA offers specialized expertise without the cost of full-time overhead.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this month’s Accelerated Partnering Session highlighted the depth of expertise within the GLSA Network. More importantly, the discussion focused on improving efficiency, strengthening patient engagement, and supporting global trial execution.
From process optimization to recruitment strategies, the session covered a wide range of topics. Together, these conversations reinforced the value of collaboration in advancing clinical research.
In closing, GLSA thanks all presenters and participants for their contributions. Looking ahead, we look forward to continuing these conversations in future sessions.
About GLSA
Global Life Sciences Alliance (GLSA) connects biotechs, pharma, CROs, and clinical research sites with the right experts, advisors, and solutions to accelerate development and reduce risk. With a network of more than 200 trusted partners spanning pre-clinical and clinical research, GLSA offers flexible, cost-effective access to specialized expertise and services that support early-stage biotechs, mid-size pharma, and global pharmaceutical companies.
When you need trusted, global resources to accelerate your research, GLSA helps you scale smarter and move you forward with confidence.
To learn how GLSA can support your organization, connect with Denise McNerney or Chris Matheus for a conversation about your goals and challenges.