Hannah Gaimster

To mark Clinical trials day 2026, in a video interview for Applied Clinical Trials, Sam Hinsley, statistics manager at Phastar, highlights the vital role statisticians play in improving clinical trial success. She reflects on how personal experience and professional responsibility intersect, emphasizing that statisticians are stewards of patient data and must balance innovation with rigor. […]

Sarah Tucker, Chief Operational Officer at Phastar, explores the evolution of Functional Service Provider (FSP) models in modern drug development, highlighting the shift from headcount-driven outsourcing to performance-led delivery. In this latest article for the Journal of Clinical Studies, she outlines how sponsors are redefining success through measurable outcomes such as cycle time, right-first-time quality, […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can you tell us a […]

Stephen Corson, Director of Operational Solutions at Phastar, explores the evolving role of contract research organizations (CROs) in a new article on clinical trial transformation for Contract Pharma. The piece examines how CROs are shifting from execution partners to strategic collaborators, and how functional service provider (FSP) models are reshaping outsourcing approaches. He highlights the […]

In clinical research and real-world evidence generation, one of the most common scientific questions we face is deceptively simple: what would happen to outcomes if all patients received treatment A instead of treatment B?  While the question sounds straightforward, the statistical reality behind it is far more complex. At its core, this is a population-level causal […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can you tell us a […]

Early-phase oncology combination trials often assume the optimal dose is already included in the dosing grid. When it isn’t, sponsors may face subtherapeutic or overly toxic recommendations, protocol amendments, and delays.  This white paper explores a contour-based method for inserting new dose combinations mid-trial, helping improve dose selection while maintaining safety and regulatory transparency.  What You’ll Learn  About the Author  Matt George, Senior Statistician, Phastar Specialist […]

Sam Hinsley, Statistics Manager at Phastar, shares practical insights into early phase clinical trial design in a new article for Biopharm International. The piece explores the evolving statistical approaches shaping modern drug development. She examines how Phase I trials are moving beyond the traditional focus on maximum tolerated dose (MTD) toward identifying optimal biological dose […]

Causal inference begins with clarity about the research question. What population, treatment, comparator, and outcome are you evaluating? Defining these elements upfront allows you to plan how real-world data can emulate the conditions of an ideal randomized trial, rather than trying to fit your question to the data you have. This blog challenges the idea that real-world data […]

Real-world evidence (RWE) is no longer peripheral to drug development. Across regulatory, HTA and payer environments, expectations have been shifting rapidly, driven by policy evolution, data availability, and the growing influence of AI-enabled analytics. For sponsors, the question is no longer whether to integrate RWE across drug development stages, but how early, how credibly, and how strategically.  This perspective, authored by Billy […]

As we mark B Corp Month 2026, Phastar is reaffirming its commitment to building a purpose-driven organization where people, sustainability, and community impact come first. Our approach to responsible business goes beyond compliance; it is embedded in how we support our employees, collaborate with partners, and contribute to the wider healthcare ecosystem.  Being a certified […]

Early-phase oncology trials are increasingly exploring combination therapies to improve outcomes for patients with complex cancers. While these approaches hold promise, they also introduce new methodological challenges, particularly when identifying the optimal dose combination that balances efficacy with acceptable toxicity.  In this blog, we explore how recent methodological research [1] from our statistical experts, Matt George and Ian Wadsworth, in collaboration with Pavel Mozgunov of the MRC Biostatistics Unit in Cambridge, applies […]

Real-world data (RWD) can provide insight into benefits, risks and usage of medical products. Unlike controlled randomized trials, RWD can capture patient populations and situations that may not be feasible to address in a clinical trial. This makes RWD a useful source for better understanding patients. However, when the goal is to understand how a medical product performs association can be misleading. Discovering that a drug is associated with improved outcomes, does […]

Billy Amzal, PhD, Head of Strategic Consulting at Phastar, explores the first year of the EU Health Technology Assessment Regulation in a new article for Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society’s Regulatory Rapporteur.  He examines how Joint Clinical Assessments (JCAs) are beginning to reshape how health technologies are evaluated across Europe, the practical challenges faced by national HTA bodies and developers, and what the […]

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, a new article in Applied Clinical Trials authored by Vicky Marriott, Head of Statistics at Phastar, explores why advancing gender equality in statistics and data science is essential for innovation, collaboration, and long-term industry growth. The article examines the barriers women continue to face across education and career progression […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can you tell us a […]

Progress in our industry is often measured in milestones, approvals, data readouts, and regulatory submissions. But behind every milestone are people.  This International Women’s Day, we’re taking a moment to spotlight some of the women across Phastar whose expertise, judgement, resilience and leadership shape our work every day. Not just in senior roles, and not just in visible moments, but across teams, disciplines, and career […]

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, a new article in PharmaLive, authored by Sarah Tucker, Chief Operating Officer at Phastar, explores how visible, inclusive leadership and strong female representation across technical and executive teams are driving operational excellence, stronger decision-making, and improved outcomes in clinical research, while reinforcing the business case for diversity in a […]

Billy Amzal, Head of Strategic Consulting at Phastar, and a Bayesian design expert and pioneer, explores the techniques used in Bayesian trial designs, examines regulatory updates, and shares real-world examples of the impact of these innovative methods in a new article for Applied Clinical Trials. “With rare disease a growing area of clinical research and […]

To mark Rare Disease Day 2026, a new article authored by Billy Amzal, Head of Strategic Consulting at Phastar, explores how external control arms, Bayesian borrowing, and AI-enabled digital twins can strengthen evidence generation and accelerate rare disease drug development, while meeting evolving expectations from regulators such as the FDA and MHRA. ”Innovative trial designs […]

Introduction  As regulatory demands intensify, the challenge for sponsors is not just to produce SDTM-compliant data, it must be done rapidly, accurately, and at scale. Traditional SDTM programming can be resource-intensive, especially when managing frequent updates or pooled submissions.  At Phastar, our MAPIT automation tool redefines how SDTM packages are created, combining metadata-driven processes, artificial […]

You were among the first to submit and defend a Bayesian trial design to the FDA around 20 years ago. How were Bayesian methods viewed by regulators at that time?     At that time, the statistical community was still quite split between frequentists and Bayesians, so it seemed additional educational work was required. In the early 2000’s, Bayesian approaches were viewed mostly as exploratory tools, essentially for early phases, in indications […]

As innovative clinical trial designs gain traction, sponsors are looking more closely at how real-world data can be used to strengthen evidence generation without compromising rigor. Clearer regulatory guidance, improved data access, and advances in analytics are opening the door to more sophisticated approaches, but only when RWD is applied with intent and discipline. In […]

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to join Phastar?   I hold an M.S. in Statistics and have almost 15 years of experience working on clinical trials across both CRO and pharmaceutical settings. I’ve contributed to numerous studies across different therapeutic areas, gaining extensive experience in study design, analysis, and data interpretation. I […]

As innovation reshapes drug development, industry leaders are looking ahead to how both preclinical discovery and clinical trials will evolve in 2026, and the role regulators will play in shaping that future. Advances in structural biology, hybrid study designs, and the expanding use of real-world evidence are expected to influence decision-making earlier and more meaningfully […]

The landscape of early-phase clinical research continues to evolve rapidly. As new therapeutic modalities emerge and regulatory expectations shift, sponsors are rethinking how dose-finding studies are designed, analyzed, and interpreted. In this blog, we explore some of the latest developments and discussion points in early-phase trials, including recommended dose ranges, backfilling, randomization, and the growing focus on patient-reported […]

On the 12th January  2026 the FDA brought out recommended guidance on the use of Bayesian methods, this marks the first time that the FDA has brought out draft guidance on Bayesian methods outside of brief mentions within other guidelines (such as the rare disease, adaptive designs and medical devices) where it is often regulated to a short paragraph or section. They are applicable to […]

Statistics sit at the heart of every early-phase clinical trial. From dose escalation to determining the Maximum Tolerated Dose (MTD), statistical decisions guide how evidence is generated, interpreted, and acted upon. These choices influence patient safety, trial efficiency, and the likelihood of identifying the right dose to take forward.  In this blog, we explore some of the key statistical […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can […]

As artificial intelligence reshapes clinical development, sponsors are rethinking what they need from their CRO partners. Cost pressures, increasingly complex therapeutics, and the growing role of specialist biopharma are accelerating the shift away from scale-driven models toward agility, specialism, and smarter use of technology. In a new Clinical Research News trendspotting article, Graham Clark, CEO […]

As pharma looks ahead to 2026, greater regulatory and geopolitical clarity is expected to unlock delayed investment decisions, but this is not without new pressures. In a new article for PharmaVoice, Graham Clark, CEO of Phastar, shares his perspectives on how stabilizing policy and trade conditions may re-energize R&D, while also reshaping the industry’s economic […]

Phastar partnered with a biotechnology sponsor to manage statistical and data management activities for a late-stage clinical study in Parkinson’s disease. The project involved distributed teams, complex neurosurgical procedures, and questionnaire-driven endpoints—all under tight budget oversight.  Key Challenges:  Our Approach:  Outcome:  The study progressed smoothly, earning strong praise from all stakeholders. The sponsor commended Phastar’s professionalism, attention […]

Introduction  In today’s data-driven clinical research environment, regulatory authorities expect structured, traceable, and high-quality data submissions. The Study Data Tabulation Model (SDTM) has become the global standard for achieving this. Since 2016, submission of clinical data in SDTM format has been mandatory for most regulatory authorities, including the FDA, PMDA, and NMPA.  For sponsors, this […]

As patient-centerd research continues to shape clinical trial design, electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) are increasingly being considered for use as primary endpoints. In a new article for the Journal of Clinical Studies, Barbara Arch, Principal Statistician at Phastar, examines the opportunities and challenges of using ePRO data in this way, drawing on learnings from three […]

Designing an early-phase clinical trial is one of the most important, and most complex, steps in drug development. The choices made here determine how efficiently a program progresses, how robust the data will be, and ultimately, whether a promising treatment reaches patients.  In this blog, we explore where to begin when planning an early-phase study, […]

Decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) continue to gain momentum as sponsors look to reduce participant burden, improve diversity, and expand access to research. But with the benefits of remote participation come new statistical and operational challenges that must be addressed early in trial planning. A new article published in Clinical Research News explores key considerations for […]

As APAC continues to embrace digital innovation, hybrid decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) are emerging as a practical and scalable model for broadening patient access. In a new article for BioSpectrum Asia, Ping-Chung Chang, Head of Business Transformation and China General Manager at Phastar, explores how AI-enabled data processes, real-world data growth, and improved digital infrastructures […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can […]

The early stages of clinical development are critical, and the decisions made here determine not only the efficiency and cost of a program but ultimately whether a promising compound reaches patients at all. As the therapeutic landscape evolves and the demand for innovative trial designs grows, early-phase studies have become an ever-changing and rapidly advancing […]

Discover how Phastar converted 16 legacy studies into SDTM and delivered a robust Integrated Summary of Safety (ISS) for a Multiple Sclerosis Spasticity program. Despite inconsistent legacy data, outdated coding, and complex integration requirements, Phastar applied structured methodology, proactive issue resolution, and harmonized integration to deliver clean, compliant, submission-ready datasets. Complete the form below to […]

A sponsor needed to pool data from four MS spasticity studies—one still ongoing with another vendor—while adapting mid-project to a new SDTM-level pooling strategy. Unique baseline derivations, advanced analyses, and regulatory expectations added further complexity. SolutionPhastar introduced a modular workflow separating statistical analysis from TFL production. This streamlined process reduced run times, improved efficiency, and […]

Phastar acted as the Independent Data Analysis Centre (IDAC) for a Phase III trial in thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) after HSCT. With 13 DMC meetings, ad hoc analyses, and tight budget constraints, our team ensured secure data sharing, expert review, and streamlined workflows—delivering high-quality results while controlling costs. Download the full case study to explore the […]

As clinical trials grow increasingly complex, sponsors are turning to specialist CROs with the expertise to transform data into regulatory-grade evidence. In this article for The Medicine Maker, Stephen Corson, Associate Director of Statistics & Technical Solutions at Phastar, discusses how the CRO model is evolving, from transactional service delivery to strategic partnership, helping sponsors […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can […]

The adoption of advanced technological tools in clinical trials is accelerating as sponsors seek faster insights, stronger compliance, and improved decision-making. In an article for Applied Clinical Trials, Christian Schmidt, Associate Director at Phastar, explains how combining tech innovation with deep therapeutic expertise can transform complex trial data into clear, actionable intelligence. ”Customizable tools can […]

Introduction  Data Monitoring Committees (DMCs) play a pivotal role in protecting the rights, safety and well-being of trial participants and also the integrity of clinical studies. Central to their optimal effectiveness are Independent Data Analysis Centers (IDAC), which bring technical expertise, operational oversight, and strategic insight to every stage of the DMC process. By reading […]

By Billy Amzal, Head of Strategic Consulting, Phastar  Introduction  Rare disease research demands tailored development and access strategies supported by innovative trial designs and dedicated analytics. From Bayesian designs to data augmentation approaches that strengthen probability of success, specialist CROs and experienced consultants are helping deliver smarter, faster, and more efficient drug development, ultimately bringing […]

Phastar supported a sponsor in preparing an Integrated Summary of Safety (ISS) for an investigational product in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), spanning 30 trials across Phase I–III and multiple indications.  Key Challenges:  Our Approach:  Outcome: Phastar successfully delivered over 500 high-quality outputs within 10 months. The ISS was ready for regulatory submission, with a clear, standardized […]

Phastar supported a sponsor in preparing an Integrated Summary of Safety (ISS) for an investigational drug in sickle cell disease, pooling data from three studies: two Phase 3 randomized trials (single- and multiple-dose) and one open-label extension.  Key Challenges:  Our Approach: 

Interim analyses in Phase III trials are high-stakes and often come with evolving requirements and tight timelines. When frequent revisions and compressed schedules created additional challenges, Phastar partnered with the sponsor to deliver clarity, accuracy, and confidence.  Key challenges included:  Phastar’s tailored solutions:  Complete the form below to read the full case study

Introduction A Data Monitoring Committee’s (DMC) overriding responsibility is to protect the rights, safety and well-being of trial participants. The optimal set-up and conduct of DMC meetings in clinical trials requires specialized expertise. It involves not only rigorous data review and oversight by the DMC members, but also meticulous attention to, where applicable, maintaining the […]

Navigating multi-therapeutic Phase III studies is complex. From strict blinding protocols to scheduling senior DMC members across multiple time zones, the challenges are significant. Phastar’s tailored approach ensures that every deliverable is managed efficiently, securely, and with the highest statistical rigor.  Key highlights from our case study:  Complete the form below to read the full […]

Introduction  Integrated Summaries of Safety (ISS) and Effectiveness (ISE) bring together data from across clinical trials to give regulators a clear picture of a treatment’s risk and benefit profile. While the Common Technical Document (CTD) format provides clinical summaries of efficacy and safety (SCE and SCS), US regulations still require detailed ISE and ISS documents, […]

When faced with evolving analysis plans, minimal client infrastructure, and shifting output volumes, Phastar delivered high-quality ISS and ISE outputs for Cushing syndrome clinical studies.  By combining automation, custom macros, and strategic agility within an FSP model, our team adapted quickly to changing sponsor needs—ensuring consistent quality and on-time delivery despite significant mid-project changes.  This […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can […]

Phastar, a global specialist biometrics & data science Contract Research Organization (CRO), has been named as finalists in two categories at the prestigious 2025 Scrip Awards. Phastar was recognized in the ‘Best Contract Research Organization – Specialist Providers’ and ‘Community Partnership of the Year’ categories at the 21st anniversary awards, which will be announced at […]

Phastar supported a sponsor in delivering a high-quality Integrated Summary of Safety (ISS) for a rare disease program in aPAP, pooling three studies into multiple analysis datasets and generating 84 outputs.  Our team tackled ongoing data updates, structural variability, complex safety derivations, and FDA change requests, ensuring alignment across all outputs and regulatory readiness.  Advanced […]

Integrating efficacy and safety data across multiple studies is never simple—especially when patient-reported outcomes, complex study designs, and multiple safety populations are involved.  In this case study, see how Phastar partnered with a global sponsor to deliver both an Integrated Summary of Efficacy (ISE) and an Integrated Summary of Safety (ISS) for a treatment targeting […]

Introduction   When preparing a regulatory submission, one of the most critical components is the Integrated Safety Summary (ISS). Far from being a simple aggregation of safety data, the ISS is a detailed and carefully constructed analysis that provides regulators with a complete picture of a product’s safety profile across clinical trials. This blog explores […]

Introduction Real-world data (RWD) can provide insight into treatment effects in a real-world setting. However, because treatment allocation in RWD is not random, analyses are susceptible to confounding, when a variable influences both treatment and outcome, potentially biasing results. When the exposure of interest varies over time, there may be time-varying confounding. Key confounders can […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can you […]

Outsourcing clinical trial activities to specialist data-focused CROs is growing rapidly, driven by the need for expert data management, biostatistics, and faster time to market. These partnerships deliver cleaner, more reliable data, streamlined operations, and faster regulatory acceptance. In an article for International Clinical Trials, Stephen Corson, Associate Director, Statistics & Technical Solutions at Phastar […]

In this exclusive interview for World Pharma Today, Phastar’s Head of Strategic Consulting, Billy Amzal, shares his career insights, regulatory perspectives, and how data-driven strategies are accelerating smarter, safer, and more impactful healthcare decisions. ”We are increasingly seeing regulatory agencies specify the context of use for novel approach methodologies such as Bayesian statistics. I believe […]

In ACRP Clinical Researcher, Katie Dixon, Senior Statistician at Phastar, reflects on the transition from graduate to manager and the support required for new leaders to thrive. “As outlined in my own experience, shadow-lead roles are one way organizations can support staff as they prepare to transition into management roles. Another effective intervention is the […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can […]

Smooth collaboration and effective integration between clinical data management (CDM) and biostatistics does not happen by chance. Without strong integration, clinical trials often suffer from delays during data handoffs, inconsistent data standards, increased rework, and compromised data quality. These challenges slow database lock, complicate analysis, and jeopardize submission readiness, putting your trial timelines and regulatory […]

Phastar recently welcomed Billy Amzal as Head of Strategic Consulting. A statistician, public health scientist, and entrepreneur, Billy brings more than 25 years of experience across the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, health agencies, and consulting.  His expertise lies in innovative, regulatory-grade statistical methodologies including adaptive trial designs, model-based meta-analysis, Bayesian approaches, and predictive modeling using […]

When Clinical Data Management (CDM) and biostatistics teams collaborate from the outset of a trial, the impact is transformative. Clearer endpoint definitions, more consistent data capture, and faster, cleaner analysis pipelines all become achievable. This helps result in accelerated timelines, fewer surprises during database lock, and a higher level of confidence in your regulatory submissions.  […]

In an exclusive interview with the European Medical Journal, Graham Clark, CEO of Phastar, discusses the current state of clinical research, the future role of AI in the industry, and how to build a values-driven company. ” The biggest challenge we face is balancing the need for speed and innovation with the imperative for quality, […]

As clinical trials become more complex and data-driven, pharmaceutical and biotech companies are increasingly seeking strategic support from specialist CROs. These data-focused partners bring deep biometrics expertise, consistent delivery, and faster access to high-quality, submission-ready data.  The global pharmaceutical CRO market was valued at over $41 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can […]

When a top 20 global pharmaceutical company issued a competitive RFP seeking support in statistical programming and data management, Phastar was selected as a trusted FSP partner. Since 2020, the partnership has grown significantly, with over 100 Phastar professionals now supporting global clinical research efforts across multiple therapeutic areas. Case Study Highlights: Entering its sixth […]

London, UK, and Durham (NC), US – June 24th, 2025: Phastar, a global specialist biometrics & data science Contract Research Organization (CRO), today announced the appointment of Billy Amzal as Head of Strategic Consulting. Amzal is a statistician, public health scientist, and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience across biotech and pharmaceutical industries, […]

Introduction  Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) remain the cornerstone of evidence generation in clinical research, providing rigorous and unbiased assessments of treatment efficacy and safety. The frequentist framework, which underpins most traditional trial designs, relies on predefined sample sizes and statistical significance thresholds. While effective for common conditions with large patient populations, these methods often face […]

A new predictive tool built from NHS data helps identify patients most at risk of kidney disease and retinopathy. It supports earlier, more personalized care. See how it’s helping clinicians address health inequities and use resources more effectively. Complete the form below to read the full case study

In a recent Q&A with European Biopharmaceutical Review, Stephen Corson—Associate Director of Statistics and Technical Solutions and Head of Statistical Consultancy at Phastar—shared expert insights on the strategic decisions that biotechs must make to ensure successful drug development. A key focus of the discussion was the importance of selecting the right biotech solutions provider and […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can […]

If your clinical data review process feels slow, fragmented, or error-prone, this case study shows how Phastar and Beaconcure cut review cycle times by over 35%. Learn how a centralized platform can: Whether you’re a sponsor, CRO, or data manager, this is essential reading to modernize your review workflows and accelerate trial timelines. Complete the […]

In Giles Partington’s recent article for Pharmaceutical Outsourcing, the Phastar Principal Statistician explores how expert prior elicitation can enhance clinical research—particularly in areas with limited data, such as rare diseases and early-phase development. He outlines how this structured approach enables teams to formally incorporate expert opinion into Bayesian trial designs, supporting more efficient, relevant, and […]

In this exclusive Discover Pharma interview, Sarah Tucker, Chief Operating Officer at Phastar, shares how the CRO is transforming clinical trials through flexible, data-driven delivery and patient-centric innovation. From decentralized models to Lean Six Sigma, she offers key insights into balancing speed with scientific rigor in today’s evolving trial landscape. ”As specialists in biometrics and […]

With major changes ahead for EU Health Technology Assessments (HTAs), including the introduction of joint clinical assessments from 2025, developers must adapt quickly to new regulatory expectations. In a recent article for PharmaPhorum, Stephen Corson, Associate Director, Statistics and Technical Solutions and Head of Statistical Consultancy at Phastar, outlines how developers can prepare for the […]

Real-world evidence (RWE) is rapidly transforming how clinical trials are designed, evaluated, and approved. In Phastar’s latest webinar, part of our new biotech-focused series, Principal Data Scientist Tasos Mangelis provided an in-depth look at the evolving RWE landscape, highlighting the opportunities, challenges, and practical applications of real-world data (RWD) in clinical development.  The Rise of […]

Phastar has been shortlisted for the Excellence in Clinical Trial Management category at the Fierce CRO Awards 2025. The award recognizes organizations that are redefining trial delivery through innovation, efficiency, and improved oversight. Our entry highlighted the impact of Phastar’s Clinical Intelligence platform, developed to support real-time oversight across complex trials by integrating operational, statistical, […]

In an exclusive feature for Contract Pharma, Phastar’s Head of Business Transformation and China General Manager, Ping-Chung Chang, examines how data sciences solutions including advanced analytics and data visualization are accelerating clinical development. He discusses the increasing complexity of clinical trials and how integrating real-time insights and AI-driven tools is transforming operations, enhancing recruitment, and […]

Introduction  Real-world data (RWD) plays a crucial role in medical research, providing valuable insights from a  variety of sources including electronic health records and claims databases. However, unlike randomized controlled trials, allocation is not random. This can result in confounding.   Understanding and addressing confounding is essential for valid causal inference. This blog post explores challenges […]

In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.  Can […]

Introduction  In clinical research, selecting the most effective treatment can be challenging, especially when multiple options exist but direct head-to-head comparisons are limited. Network Meta-Analysis (NMA) is a powerful statistical technique that helps overcome this challenge by integrating both direct and indirect evidence to compare multiple treatments simultaneously.  This blog will introduce what NMA is, […]

At Phastar, we are passionate about accelerating the pace of clinical development through specialist biometrics and data science solutions, supporting our clients in their mission to improve human health. But as we work with our clients to develop better treatments, it is important to reflect on the impact our industry has on the planet. From […]

With biotechs increasingly driving innovation in research and development, it is important for organizations to choose the right outsourcing partner to overcome challenges around data, infrastructure and expertise. But how can biotechs do this best? Stephen Corson’s, Associate Director of Statistics and Technical Solutions and Head of Statistical Consultancy at Phastar, article with Journal for […]

Early-phase clinical trials play a critical role in drug development, particularly in determining the right dose and combination of treatments for later-stage testing. With the increasing complexity of combination therapies, traditional trial designs often struggle to keep pace.  In our recent webinar, Dr. Pavel Mozgunov (MRC Investigator, MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge), Weishi Chen […]

London, UK, and Durham (NC), US – April 10th, 2025: Phastar, a global specialist biometrics & data science Contract Research Organization (CRO), has been shortlisted in ‘CRO Partnership of the Year’ category at the 2025 Citeline Awards for its collaboration with Medicines Development for Global Health (MDGH), a not for profit pharmaceutical company dedicated to […]

In an interview with The Clinical Trial Vanguard, Phastar CEO Graham Clark explores the evolving pharmaceutical landscape. He shares insights on the latest industry trends, highlighting the growing role of technology in clinical trials and the strategic advancements shaping drug development and trial management.

As we celebrate B Corp Month, Phastar reaffirms its commitment to responsible business practices that drive real impact. We continue to drive sustainability through initiatives such as our net-zero targets, pro bono biometrics support for charities, and ESG-driven clinical trial solutions.  Additionally, we are proud to announce that Phastar has improved its CDP sustainability score, […]

Matthew Thompson, Associate Director, Statistical Programming at Phastar, authored a piece for Clinical Research News on how Real-World Evidence (RWE) is transforming drug development. He explores the benefits of RWE in hybrid trials, patient recruitment, and adaptive designs, as well as the challenges of working with Real-World Data (RWD).

As we mark International Women’s Day 2025, Phastar is calling for accelerated action toward gender equality in data and STEM fields. At the current pace, full gender parity won’t be reached until 2158, making it crucial for our industry to act now. While Phastar is proud that over 56% of our data experts are women, […]

On Rare Disease Day, we highlight the potential of Bayesian statistics to overcome recruitment challenges in rare disease trials. In an article for ACRP Clinical Researcher, Giles Partington, Principal Statistician at Phastar, explores how incorporating prior data and expert judgment can reduce sample size requirements, improve efficiency, and increase trial success rates. ”There are between […]

At SCOPE 2025, Phastar CEO Graham Clark spoke with Applied Clinical Trials (ACT) about the future of clinical trial optimization. Discussing Phastar’s Best in Show-winning Clinical Intelligence Portal, he highlighted how data science solutions such as AI-driven analytics and real-time insights are transforming trial oversight.  ” The first thing, the bedrock of everything, is rigorous data […]

London, UK, and Durham (NC), US – February 13th, 2025: Phastar, a global specialist biometrics & data science contract research organization (CRO), won a Best of Show Award at Summit for Clinical Ops Executives (SCOPE) US 2025. Having taken place in Orlando, Florida from the 3rd-6th February, SCOPE’s 300+ attendees voted on more than 60 product […]

Elisa Mansfield, Vice President of FSP at Phastar, contributed an article to Pharmaceutical Outsourcing discussing the critical role of selecting the right FSP solution for biotech and biopharma organizations. She explored how these strategic partnerships can optimize quality, financial efficiency, and operational effectiveness. “By building good-standard partnerships, biotech, and biopharma companies can ensure they maximize […]

Graham Clark, CEO at Phastar, spoke to PharmaVoice with his predictions on how AI and data science solutions will further transform the business of drug discovery and development this year. ”As AI, big data and digital health technologies become essential for trial design and patient recruitment, the demand for analytical and technical skills will likely […]

Graham Clark, CEO at Phastar, contributed to Clinical Research News on his predictions for clinical research in 2025. Clark highlighted the growing efficiency brought by AI but warned of a critical talent shortage in specialized roles like AI experts and data scientists. He urged the industry to upskill and adapt to new technologies to avoid […]

Having completed an undergraduate degree in mathematics, Sarah Crossley joined the Phastar apprenticeship scheme in January 2024, where they are currently pursuing a master’s degree while working as a statistician. This apprenticeship scheme is distinct from the Phastar graduate program, which is designed for individuals who have recently graduated from an MSc or PhD. In […]

Elisa Mansfield, Vice President FSP at Phastar contributed an article to European Pharmaceutical Contractor discussing the rise of a FSP solution to outsourcing, the advantages to this method and how to select the right strategic partner to optimize outsourcing for the greatest efficiency, quality and flexibility. ‘Outsourcing allows sponsors to reduce costs, gain specific domain […]

Vicky Marriott, Head of Statistics at Phastar recently spoke with Outsourcing Pharma for its Women in Science feature. In the exclusive interview she discusses her career to date, the challenges she has faced and how she wants to inspire the next generation of women in statistics. ‘I also had a preconception that you needed to […]

We are proud to announce that Phastar has improved its EcoVadis sustainability score, achieving a commendable 60 this year. This progress places us within the top 35% of companies, earning a prestigious bronze rating.   EcoVadis is a trusted global provider of business sustainability ratings, helping organizations measure and improve their impact on society and the […]

By Lucy Clark, Statistics Manager, and Barbara Arch, Senior Statistician.  The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently (September 2024) published a finalized guidance document on Conducting Clinical Trials with Decentralized Elements. [1] This document is aimed at sponsors, investigators, and other interested parties. Two of our expert statisticians at Phastar have summarized the […]

Elisa Mansfield, Vice President, FSP at Phastar, contributed an article for the October issue of Applied Clinical Trials titled ‘Implementing a Gold Standard FSP Strategic Partnership’. The article discusses how biotech and biopharma companies can make sure they choose the right FSP solution to maximize financial efficiency, quality, operational effectiveness, and overall success. ‘In a […]

On this World Mental Health Day, Phastar stands in support of raising awareness and fostering open conversations about mental well-being. This year’s theme, “Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” underscores the critical importance of addressing mental health and well-being for the benefit of individuals, organizations, and communities.  At Phastar, we are dedicated to […]

In Jack Jacobsen’s, Head of Data and Visual Analytics at Phastar, article with PM360 he explores how we can fully utilize data science solutions including visualization to unlock valuable insights in clinical trials and extract the maximum value from data. ‘The right tool can significantly enhance data understanding, insight discovery, communication, decision-making, efficiency, collaboration, data […]

Phastar CEO, Graham Clark, was interviewed by the editor of Outsourcing Pharma at the DIA Global Annual Meeting earlier in the year. Graham provided insights on the key trends and advancements shaping the industry today, including the role of AI and data science solutions in this transformation. “How the industry transitions away from dependence on […]