Singapore-based clinical research company Celero Global says it plans to set up its North American headquarters in Edmonton.

At an announcement Tuesday at the foreign investment and business development agency Edmonton Global, CEO Adham Rezk said the company based its decision in part on the region’s growing importance as a hub for research.

“Establishing our office in Edmonton enables Celero to leverage the local expertise, fostering rich environments for innovation in addition to taking advantage of Health Canada’s regulatory authority, which is recognized globally,” Rezk said in a recorded video address from Dubai.

Rezk said the region offers a “rich research landscape,” particularly in oncology and diabetes, as well as diversity, including Indigenous communities, which can make its research more inclusive and relevant.

He said the province’s health care infrastructure was also a factor, along with the opportunity to collaborate with local research institutions.

“Being here allows us to be part of a community of world-renowned researchers and facilities. By situating ourselves in the Edmonton region, we’re not only setting the stage for groundbreaking research through Celero, but also fostering an environment where the life-sciences ecosystem can thrive, driven by a partnership model that tailors to the needs of biotech and pharmaceutical companies,” he said.

The Celero team boasts experience conducting 80 clinical trials in more than 25 countries, and once they secure their first contract, will begin hiring and setting up an Edmonton office.

Edmonton Global estimated that each trial will require between five and 50 full-time, highly skilled staff, costing approximately $15 million and potentially injecting some $9 million back into the local economy.

Malcolm Bruce, CEO of Edmonton Global, said more than 60 per cent of life sciences companies in the province are located in the Edmonton region.

“There is a tremendous amount of growth going on. Just since 2020, there’s been 236 per cent growth in the innovation networks that are going on within this region. That’s a significant number that’s only envisioned to continue,” said Bruce.

Ward pihêsiwin city Coun. Tim Cartmell said Edmonton’s life sciences sector sometimes “flies under the radar,” but Tuesday’s announcement will attract positive attention, and Celero’s clinical trials have a tangible impact on the community.

“It’s great to have those things coming to the city and employing people here, as opposed to what often happens in the life sciences ecosystem, which is where people are educated, but they go to some other place to pursue their careers,” said Cartmell.

Alberta Jobs, Economy and Trade Minister Matt Jones said he sees “exponential value” in Celero’s move, touting the province’s efforts to reduce regulatory red tape, and its low eight per cent corporate tax rate.

“Welcoming organizations like Celero to the province contributes to Alberta’s exciting story of prosperity and growth, where people can put down roots, raise a family and start or build their career, and where businesses can feel confident about their investments,” he said.