Highlighting our global research impact to mark International Clinical Trials Day 2026

Icon Writers / 20 May, 2026

Icon Group is marking International Clinical Trials Day 2026 by highlighting the growing impact of our global clinical trials and research programs, reinforcing the critical role research plays in improving outcomes for patients worldwide.

Over the past 15 months, Icon’s research portfolio has continued to expand in scale, complexity and reach, enabling more patients to access innovative therapies through clinical trials across our network.

Thousands of patients have been supported through research participation, including those enrolled in early phase and novel therapy studies that offer access to new and emerging treatments 

During the reporting period (January 2025 to April 2026), 114 new clinical trials and research projects were activated across 37 sites, reflecting continued investment in expanding access to research closer to home. A total of 779 patients were active on trials, with 340 newly recruited and 62 participating in investigator-initiated trials led by Icon clinicians.  

Executive Manager for Research, Sophie Mepham, said research remains fundamental to how Icon delivers better outcomes for patients. 

“At Icon, research has always been central to how we deliver care. As we mark International Clinical Trials Day, we recognise the important role our clinical trials programs play in expanding access to innovative therapies worldwide.”  

Key milestones over the past year include the upcoming celebration of 10 years of early phase clinical trials expertise, with Icon Cancer Centre South Brisbane established as a leading site for first-in-human studies and home to Queensland’s largest private Phase I unit. 

Icon has also continued to strengthen its research capability through strategic partnerships and philanthropic investment. A new partnership with GreenLight Clinical CRO is streamlining the delivery of complex oncology trials, while a record $2.5 million donation to the Icon Cancer Foundation is supporting the expansion of clinician-led research and early-stage studies.  

Across its network, Icon continues to invest in emerging treatment areas, including theranostics and cellular therapies, supported by dedicated infrastructure, specialist clinicians and multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities are helping to improve access to complex and highly personalised treatments, while enhancing the patient experience.  

For patients, clinical trials offer more than access to new therapies; they represent hope for better outcomes. As one Icon research participant shared: 

“If it didn’t help me, hopefully it would help other people. Without patients to trial new treatments, there wouldn’t be breakthroughs in fighting cancer,” Sophie said. 

Looking ahead, Icon’s focus remains on strengthening its global research network, building site capability, and continuing to expand access to high-impact clinical trials across Australia, New Zealand and ASEAN, with further opportunities being explored in the UK and Europe.   

By combining clinical expertise, strong partnerships and continued investment in research infrastructure, Icon is working to advance cancer care and deliver meaningful outcomes for patients now and into the future. 

Learn more about research at Icon

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