A leading multinational pharmaceutical company was facing multiple operational challenges at its rapidly expanding research centre. Routine scientific activities were consuming a significant amount of time for research staff at all levels, resulting in inefficiencies and bottlenecks. Additionally, inconsistencies in cell culture processes and increasing demands on automation suites highlighted the need for a more streamlined approach to scientific support.
Challenge
The client’s research centre was experiencing several critical issues. Highly skilled scientists were spending too much time on routine tasks, detracting from their focus on high-value research activities. There were inconsistencies in cell culture requirements leading to a lack of a standardized approach across the centre.
This meant that the introduction of new automation suites and potential future expansion of GCMS capabilities were likely to cause sample preparation challenges and further strain resources.
To maintain research productivity and support future growth, the client needed a dedicated scientific support team that could seamlessly integrate with existing operations and alleviate these constraints.
Solution
After an onsite evaluation and extensive discussions with the client’s leadership, we proposed the implementation of a dedicated onsite scientific support team. This team would undertake a range of essential laboratory functions, enabling the client’s research scientists to focus on their core research activities.
Key Actions Implemented:
- Establishment of a Scientific Support Team: A team of scientific professionals was deployed to take on routine yet critical laboratory activities, including sample preparation, equipment maintenance, and quality control.
- Process Optimisation and Integration: The support team operated in alignment with the client’s existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and research pipelines. Close integration with the onsite operational teams ensured that the support team could rapidly adapt to project demands and contribute effectively.
- GCMS and Automation Support: The team provided specialised assistance in the GCMS area, facilitating cross-training and capacity management to ensure continuity during personnel absences. Automation support was further enhanced by streamlining sample preparation processes, allowing for greater daily research throughput.
Outcome
The introduction of our dedicated onsite scientific support team led to several impactful outcomes:
Increased Research Efficiency: The support team freed up valuable time for research scientists, enabling them to focus on high-priority projects and reducing the risk of project delays caused by routine task backlogs.
Reduction in Contamination and Process Failures: Standardisation and improved oversight led to fewer contamination events and minimised delays due to sample or method process failures.
Enhanced Resource Planning and Operational Flexibility: The support team’s proactive management of resources and capacity ensured that the laboratory environment remained optimised, and that reagents, samples, and plates were readily available to meet research timelines.
Scalability and Adaptability: Over 18 months, the onsite team doubled in size to support the client’s expanding research operations. This growth allowed the team to provide critical support to most key studies, ensuring continuous research progress even during periods of personnel absence.
The client reported extremely positive feedback, noting the team’s contribution to achieving research targets and their professional competence and behaviour. The collaborative relationship and seamless integration of the support team into the client’s operations have established Impellam Project Services as a trusted partner.
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Impellam Project Services works with research centres and laboratories around the world, providing expert talent that drives laboratory success. Our flexible scientific support teams are sourced, managed, and developed by our own specialists, ensuring that your research operations have the support they need to thrive.