Published: 7/21/2020

(Gaithersburg, MD) – July 21, 2020 – Smithers, a leading provider of testing, consulting, information, and compliance services, is pleased to announce the appointment of Rafiq Islam to the role of Regional Vice President for the Pharmaceutical Development Services division. Smithers has appointed Rafiq Islam to lead the division’s North America operations.
 
“We are very excited to have Rafiq on board. He has a solid background in scientific and operational leadership. His proven track record in developing and executing strategic plans to deliver scientific, operational, and service excellence is a tremendous addition to our team” said Ira DuBey PhD, President, Pharmaceutical Development Services, Smithers. “I am confident that he will help Smithers grow our operational expertise so we can offer increasing support to our clients worldwide.”
 
Mr. Islam has over twenty years of biotechnology and CRO industry experience. He is a proven leader who has excelled at strategic leadership and execution. He has demonstrated a strong track record in initiating and leading change, strengthening regulatory compliance, driving results and innovating with passion and purpose. He has authored and contributed to more than 50 articles, industry whitepapers and numerous posters on the topic of regulated bioanalysis, biomarker, immunogenicity and biosimilars. He will be based in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
 
The Pharmaceutical Development Services division is a specialized, bioanalytical contract research organization (CRO), which provides a comprehensive range of services from discovery through phase IV for the development of large-molecule therapeutics.  Smithers has two labs in the United States located in Gaithersburg, Maryland and Ewing, New Jersey dedicated to pharmaceutical development.  
 
Smithers continues to invest in talent and technology to better serve its clients and grow its market share in the life sciences industries, which include pharmaceutical, medical device, and environmental sciences.