On August 13, 2026 Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), one of the world’s leading oncology research organizations conducting community-based clinical trials, reported a strategic collaboration with Merck, known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, to utilize SCRI’s Accelero delivery model designed to expand patient access to oncology clinical trials at community-based sites across the U.S.
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The oncology clinical research landscape is rapidly evolving, as study designs become more complex, patient eligibility criteria more precise, and the heightened urgency to bring breakthrough science to patients faster continues to grow. These dynamics require modern clinical trial delivery models that are more efficient, data-enabled, and accessible for patients in community settings. SCRI and Merck are working together to address the challenges by advancing a scalable approach to oncology trial execution.
"At Merck, we are focused on advancing research to better understand cancer and potential therapeutic approaches. By leveraging the Accelero delivery model, we have the potential to reach patients faster, reduce protocol complexity, and make oncology clinical studies more accessible in the communities where patients live," said Jennifer Coppola, Associate Vice President and Regional Head for Global Clinical Trial Operations of North America at Merck Research Laboratories.
Through Accelero, SCRI uses a streamlined operating model to improve the speed and efficiency of oncology drug development. SCRI works closely with its physician network and industry partners to identify specific challenges and tailor fit-for-purpose solutions, including EHR-to-EDC data transfer across portfolios, accelerated site start-up and increased enrollment on high-priority studies. With select industry partners, Accelero has delivered site activations up to 50 percent faster than traditional operations, enrollment rates 19 percent higher than the 7 percent national average, and 95 percent fewer data changes than traditional clinical research coordinator data entry processes.1
"Merck has helped shape the modern era of cancer treatment, and we share a commitment to advance the next generation of cancer medicines through innovative approaches," said Dee Anna Smith, Chief Executive Officer of SCRI. "Together, we are committed to accelerating trial delivery, reduce operational friction, and bring research to patients."
(Press release, Sarah Cannon Research Institute, AUG 13, 2026, View Source [SID1234670088])