Everest Clinical Research Expands Global Biometrics Capabilities with Acquisition of Firma Clinical Research’s Data Services Business Unit

Acquisition of Firma Clinical Research’s Data Services Business Unit

Everest Clinical Research, a Toronto-based data-first, full-service clinical research organization, announced the acquisition of the Biometrics and Data Services business unit of Firma Clinical Research, branded as Firma DS. Everest is a portfolio company of Arlington Capital Partners, a Washington, D.C.-area private equity firm focused on regulated industries. The deal adds Firma DS’s biometrics and clinical data services, which support biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device and diagnostic companies across the clinical development lifecycle.

Scale and Therapeutic Reach of Firma DS

Firma DS has contributed to more than 1,000 clinical studies and over 60 New Drug Application submissions, according to the announcement. Its work spans complex therapeutic areas including oncology, neurology, rare disease, hepatology and nephrology. The acquired unit’s track record in high-stakes regulatory filings was cited as a driver behind the transaction.

Leadership Commentary on the Deal

"This acquisition reflects our continued investment in exceptional clinical data science talent and reinforces our commitment to helping clients bring therapies to patients faster," Everest Chief Executive Officer Jin Dai said. Dai added that Firma DS shares Everest’s commitment to high-quality delivery with flexibility, responsiveness and speed. Everest Chief Operating Officer Rob Woolson said the incoming team will strengthen delivery capabilities while maintaining team continuity and seamless service for Firma DS clients throughout the transition.

Geographic and Service-Line Expansion

An experienced team of biometrics professionals is joining Everest’s global organization, with the deal explicitly aimed at strengthening delivery across the US and the Asia-Pacific region. Existing Firma DS clients will gain access to Everest’s global delivery infrastructure and scale, advanced technology platforms, and full-service capabilities including regulatory strategy, clinical operations, clinical trial technologies, medical affairs, patient safety and medical writing, through a single global CRO partner.

Investor Rationale and Forward Signals

Malcolm Little, a partner at Arlington Capital Partners, said sponsors increasingly need partners with the scale, expertise and integrated capabilities to support programs across geographies and regulatory environments, framing the acquisition as a response to that demand. Everest has not disclosed a closing date or financial terms, and no subsequent milestones, filings or integration updates were announced.