Dermatology studies aren’t quite like anything else in clinical research. Endpoints can be subjective, photography and imaging standards matter, and many trials rely on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and consistent rater training. This guide highlights 10 dermatology contract research organisations (CROs).
We evaluated CROs on dermatology specialisation and track record; delivery scale and geographic reach, imaging/core-lab and eCOA/PRO expertise, decentralised trial readiness, and indications coverage (e.g. atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, hidradenitis suppurativa, vitiligo, etc).
Recent changes worth noting include:
To reduce bias, the final list is presented in alphabetical order, not by rank. Keep reading to find out the top 10 dermatology CROs to watch in 2025.
ICON is a global CRO with established dermatology delivery across Phases I–IV, supported by its Accellacare site network. The team covers common and complex indications, combining operational depth with central services such as imaging, data management and biostatistics. ICON is a practical choice for sponsors seeking large, multi-country studies with consistent site performance and access to experienced dermatology investigators.
Indero is a specialist dermatology CRO with roots in Innovaderm and a long history of skin and immune-mediated trials. The organisation pairs dermatology-first operations with strong eCOA/PRO handling, rater training, and photography standards that hold up under regulatory scrutiny. Indero suits sponsors who want specialist attention on derm endpoints, from early feasibility through late-phase execution.
IQVIA combines global delivery with real-world data and technology that can streamline screening, recruitment and outcomes capture in dermatology. IQVIA Biotech offers a tailored service for small and mid-cap biotechs, while the broader IQVIA network enables scale when programmes expand. A solid option if you need data-driven feasibility, eCOA integration and the ability to pivot quickly across geographies.
Medpace runs dermatology trials end-to-end with in-house central labs, imaging expertise and cross-functional biometrics. Their integrated model helps tighten timelines and reduce vendor friction, particularly in image-heavy studies or those needing central review. Medpace is well suited to sponsors who value operational control and predictable delivery across phases.
Parexel’s dermatology work typically sits within its Immunology & Inflammation practice, bringing large-scale resourcing, global reach and a consistent quality system. The company supports complex Phase II–III trials and regulatory-ready data packages, with established eCOA workflows and site networks in North America, Europe and beyond. Choose Parexel when you need breadth, repeatability and robust governance for multi-region programmes.
PPD, part of Thermo Fisher’s Clinical Research Group, offers extensive dermatology experience backed by enterprise-grade biometrics, labs and imaging. The group’s scale, templates and centralised oversight can reduce start-up variability, while dermatology specialists support indication-specific endpoints and training. A dependable pick for sponsors prioritising global consistency and laboratory integration.
Premier Research focuses on biotech programmes and brings meaningful dermatology experience, including rare and paediatric studies. The team is comfortable with complex protocols, patient-centric design and eCOA selection, with pragmatic attention to site readiness and rater calibration. Consider Premier when you need hands-on support and senior attention across mid-sized, time-pressured studies.
Quanticate is one of the world’s largest biometrics-focused CROs, specialising in data-driven services across all phases of dermatology trials, including statistical analysis, clinical data management and clinical study reporting. With over 30 years’ experience in biometrics, Quanticate supports sponsors from global pharma to specialist biotechs and is adept at handling image-rich datasets and PRO/eCOA outputs. In 2025, Quanticate continues to expand dermatology biometrics and real-world evidence analytics, enabling more automated statistical workflows and pragmatic RWE integration to support adaptive designs and clearer decision-making.
Symbio is a dermatology specialist formed from the consolidation of Symbio, Proinnovera and Dow Development. Its teams are known for deep indication knowledge, strong European and US site relationships, and disciplined photography standards. Symbio is a good match for sponsors who want specialist focus with enough scale to run multi-country Phase II–III trials efficiently.
TFS HealthScience operates a dedicated dermatology unit with experience across inflammatory skin diseases and aesthetics. The company blends mid-sized agility with established biometrics and eCOA processes, offering sensible timelines and attentive project leadership. TFS suits sponsors seeking a partner large enough to scale, yet small enough to remain closely engaged throughout the study.
Dermatology Know-How
Ask for recent derm projects in your indication, photography SOPs, and examples of rater training and calibration.
Imaging and Central Review
Confirm device standards, colour calibration, storage and traceability. Clarify whether central review or adjudication is needed.
Endpoints and Instruments
Ensure experience with EASI, PASI, IGA, VASI, and dermatology QoL instruments. Check the team’s eCOA selection and validation process.
Operational Readiness
Probe site selection methods, feasibility assumptions, seasonal effects on recruitment, and plans for screen failure reduction.
Decentralised Clinical Trials and Technology
Look for tele-dermatology workflows, remote image capture guidance, eConsent, and monitoring approaches that won’t compromise data quality.
Quality and Governance
Review audit history, issue management, metrics, and how vendor oversight will work if multiple suppliers are involved.
A clear, detailed brief helps your CRO produce accurate timelines, budgets, and risk plans. Include:
Dermatology trials reward discipline: consistent imaging, well-trained raters, and clean data pipelines from sites to analysis. Whether you choose a specialist or a full-service organisation, prioritise teams that can prove they’ve handled your endpoints and operational risks before. Use the checklist above to shortlist partners, and don’t hesitate to ask for concrete examples and SOPs since small details in dermatology make a big difference on inspection day.
Quanticate combines deep biometrics expertise with specialist knowledge in dermatology trials. Our teams deliver statistical programming, clinical data management, medical writing, and pharmacovigilance with a focus on the unique demands of skin studies, handling image-rich datasets, PRO/eCOA outputs, and complex endpoints with precision. Whether you need the reach of a global network or the focus of a niche partner, we adapt to your requirements and work with transparency at every stage. Ready to streamline your dermatology study? Submit an RFI today.