Vienna, Austria and Princeton, NJ, United States, August 14, 2025 — Global Clinical Trials (GCT), a leading full-service contract research organization (CRO), is proud to announce its expansion into Austria—further strengthening its presence in Western Europe. This strategic move enhances GCT’s ability to deliver high-quality clinical trial services across the DACH region and supports its ongoing commitment to operational excellence throughout Europe.

As part of this expansion, GCT is pleased to welcome Dr. Patrizia Kahl-Rainer as Country Head, Austria.

With nearly 30 years of experience in clinical research and pharmaceutical services, Dr. Kahl-Rainer brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the role. Her impressive career features leadership roles including Managing Director of a local CRO as well as senior and strategic positions such as Head of Clinical Operations, Quality Representative, International Group Leader, and Senior Project Manager. She has also served in key roles in oncology research and clinical trial management, and holds a strong academic background, including her work as a Clinical Research Scientist at the Institute of Tumor Biology and Cancer Research in Vienna.

“Patrizia’s deep expertise and leadership in clinical research are a perfect fit for our expansion in Austria” – said Dr. Eugene Selivra, GCT’s Chief Executive Officer – “Her experience, scientific acumen, and dedication to quality make her an invaluable addition to our team.”

As Country Head, Dr. Kahl-Rainer will oversee all Austrian operations, including legal compliance, client relations, human resources, financial management, and continuous quality improvement.

Why Austria?

“Austria is an ideal location for clinical research” – said Dr. Selivra – “With robust regulatory oversight from BASG and a highly professional ethical review process, the country offers fast approval timelines—around 35 days for mono-national trials and approximately 60 days for multinational trials, both under the EU Clinical Trials Regulation—making it an attractive location for pilot and early-phase studies.”

Austria is widely recognized for its:

  • Efficient regulatory pathways under EU CTR
  • Access to world-class academic hospitals and investigators
  • Strong patient recruitment potential in areas like oncology, neurology, and rare diseases
  • Cost-effective positioning within the DACH region, offering high-quality infrastructure at lower operational costs compared to Switzerland and Germany

“Austria combines scientific excellence with operational efficiency” – added Dr. Selivra – “It offers an educated population, strong academic networks, universal healthcare, and fewer competing trials—all critical factors for successful clinical trial recruitment.”

GCT’s local team in Austria is fully operational and ready to provide sponsors with reliable, high-quality support rooted in global standards and local expertise.

About GCT
Global Clinical Trials (GCT) is a full-service CRO providing comprehensive clinical trial management across North America, Europe, and Asia. With a strong focus on quality, flexibility, and customer service, GCT supports pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies in delivering successful clinical trials from start to finish.