Medelis, Inc., a contract research organization providing oncology clinical trial design, management and execution, has announced the formation of Medelis Europe and the appointment of Deirdre Tessman, Ph.D., as its Managing Director. Formerly of Tessman Technology Ltd. and ILEX Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Tessman brings more than 30 years of worldwide drug development and regulatory experience to the Medelis organization. She has directed all phases of pharmaceutical development from research through drug approval and marketing with additional expertise in the startup and turnaround of pharmaceutical companies. “We are excited to take this significant step in expanding our geographical coverage and our service offerings to our worldwide clients who wish to bring their drugs to the European community for approval and sale,” said Medelis CEO Bob Bosserman. “Dr. Tessman has a long-term relationship with Medelis, and we’re delighted to make it official,” he continued. “Deirdre has an excellent track record and established reputation for founding and holding senior positions within both CROs and pharmaceutical companies. She is the clear choice to lead our firm’s European office and will be a substantial asset for our U.S. and European clients as well as for Medelis’ continuing evolution as a worldwide leader in oncology drug development.” Her appointment reunites her with former colleagues Dr. Daniel Von Hoff, Dr. Skip Burris, and Dr. Mace Rothenberg, all members of Medelis’ Medical Advisory Board. Medelis Europe delivers complete oncology drug development services from preclinical through phase III. European, U.S. and Asian sponsors looking to bring drugs to the U.S. & European markets can utilize Medelis’ full service offering including EDC for phase I studies, internet-based patient recruitment, and integrated preclinical studies aligning the preclinical, regulatory and clinical teams.