A scientific consultancy firm, headquartered in the county, has been acquired by a US company.

A4P Consulting, based at Sandwich’s Discovery Park, was founded 12 years ago and specialises in bioanalytical and biosample project management, as well as biomarker strategy and logistics solutions in support of preclinical and clinical trials.

It has now been snapped up by Tennessee-based LabConnect which partners with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, contract research organisations and foundations/non-governmental organisations (NGOs), to accelerate the development of new medicines around the world.

Ian James, co-founder and chief executive officer of A4P, said: “Bringing together our unique company model with LabConnect unlocks exciting opportunities to broaden the geographies we operate in and enhance our service offerings for our customers.

“I am excited for the future for both our customers and our valued staff.”

Adds LabConnect CEO Dawn Sherman: “With our complementary experience, expertise, and nimble working model, our clients have unprecedented access to leading-edge scientific solutions to support their pre-clinical and clinical research.

"By joining forces with A4P, we further our mission to create healthier communities and improve patient lives by accelerating the development of medicines.”