--- title: "Expert Clinical Trial Services in Neuroscience - Transforming CNS clinical research for biotech innovation - Avance Clinical" description: "Avance Clinical has launched a dedicated Center of Excellence for Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders" canonical: "https://www.avancecro.com/expert-clinical-trial-services-in-neuroscience/" generated: "2026-09-22T21:35:03+00:00" --- # Avance Clinical **CNS Center of Excellence** Avance Clinical has launched a dedicated **Center of Excellence for Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders**, designed to help biotechs overcome the unique challenges of developing neurological therapies. With more than **50 CNS trials completed in the past five years**, our center builds on proven expertise to deliver integrated, end-to-end clinical trial solutions — from **first-in-human studies through pivotal Phase III programs**. Learn more [Request A Proposal](https://www.avancecro.com/request-a-proposal/) ![](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CNS-Neurons-pink-aspect-ratio-1600-975-916x916.png) ## GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR **CLINICAL TRIAL EXPERTS** Three decades of experience in biotech drug development [Connect with us](https://www.avancecro.com/request-a-proposal/) ### Expert Clinical Trial Services in **Neuroscience** We partner with biotechs to address the most pressing challenges in CNS drug development, including: - Complex protocol design and execution - Difficult patient recruitment and retention - High screen failure rates (57% in CNS vs. 36.3% in other therapeutic areas) ![](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CNS-Brain-image-aspect-ratio-1600-975-916x916.png) ## Comprehensive **CNS-Focused Services** [Request A Proposal](https://www.avancecro.com/request-a-proposal/) ### Protocol Design Tailored to the complexities of neurological indications ### Regulatory Strategy Expertise across multiple global jurisdictions ### Site Networks Access to CNS-specialized clinical sites worldwide ### Patient Recruitment Targeted strategies to overcome enrollment challenges ### Data Management & Analytics Advanced approaches for complex CNS endpoints ## Distinguished **Leadership** The CNS Center of Excellence team at Avance Clinical merges a powerful blend of complementary expertise, spanning medical leadership, CRO operations, regulatory strategy, neurobiology, site activation, and preclinical toxicology. Each member brings deep specialization that, together, covers every critical aspect required for successful CNS clinical research. This core team is seamlessly integrated with Avance’s broader service and technical experts in biostatistics, clinical project management, monitoring, data management, and pharmacovigilance. By working collaboratively, they deliver an end-to-end specialist solution, ensuring clients benefit from robust scientific insight, operational excellence, and comprehensive support across all phases of CNS drug development. This unified approach empowers sponsors to confidently navigate the complexities of CNS research, achieving program milestones efficiently and with the highest standards of quality. Our CNS Center of Excellence at Avance Clinical is proud to bring together a diverse and highly experienced team of experts, each bringing valuable insights and decades of industry experience to every project. ### Dr Francesco Bibbiani – Medical Lead Renowned for clinical leadership in CNS trials, Francesco brings extensive hands-on experience guiding global neuroscience programs. His deep medical expertise ensures the highest standards for patient safety, protocol integrity, and scientific excellence. ### Marty Kraut, PhD, PMP – CNS Program Operations Specialist With years of hands-on leadership in Clinical Research Organization (CRO) CNS operational programs, Marty specializes in driving operational success for trial sponsors. He has managed large-scale and complex CNS clinical programs, ensuring timelines and operational excellence for global studies. ### Jorgen Mould, PhD – Regulatory and Scientific Affairs Dr. Mould’s PhD in neurobiology and impressive record in CNS research deliver deep scientific and regulatory expertise. From global regulatory strategy to scientific protocol design and review, Jorgen ensures that every CNS project meets the most rigorous regulatory standards and leverages the latest neurobiology insights. ### Anne Rotten – Site Solution Strategy Expert Former clinical CNS researcher and now a recognized leader in site strategy at Avance, Annie translates hands-on trial experience into optimal site selection and activation approaches. She excels in connecting trial sponsors with the most suitable research sites and designing strategies for successful CNS program delivery. ### Kevin Leach, PhD – CNS Toxicology and Preclinical Programs Dr. Leach specializes in CNS toxicology and preclinical research, offering expert guidance for early-phase drug development. His experience bridges the gap between discovery, IND-enabling toxicology, and regulatory strategy, helping sponsors confidently progress CNS assets toward clinical development. ![](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Medical-staff-having-conference-meeting-in-hospital-aspect-ratio-1600-975-916x916.jpg) ### Why **Our Team** Makes a Difference - Collective expertise covering all facets of CNS clinical trial development – from early-stage preclinical through to late-phase operations. - Proven track record in delivering successful global CNS trials, even in the most challenging patient populations and regulatory landscapes. - A multidisciplinary partnership that provides comprehensive solutions for sponsors, accelerating timelines and mitigating risks at every stage. Let our team guide you through the complexities of CNS drug development, ensuring your program benefits from world-class scientific, operational, and strategic insight. ### A **Strategic Partnership** Model for Biotechs Built exclusively to serve biotech sponsors, the CNS Center of Excellence offers a **true partnership approach**, incorporating Australia’s unmatched regulatory advantages: - **Accelerated startup timelines** - **Streamlined regulatory pathways** - **43.5% R&D tax incentive** - **Global trial structuring expertise** Whether conducting **early-phase studies in [Australia](https://www.avancecro.com/the-australian-advantage/)** or managing **multi-regional global trials**, our model transforms Australia’s benefits into lasting competitive advantages. ![](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Data-Center-Programmer-Using-Digital-Laptop-Computer-Maintenance-IT-Specialist.-Cloud-Computing-Server-Farm-System-Administrator-Working-on-Cyber-Security-aspect-ratio-1600-975-916x916.jpg) ### Why Choose **Avance Clinical** Our key differentiators include: - Exclusive focus on **biotechs across all trial phases** - Expert guidance from **specialized Centers of Excellence** - In-house **regulatory affairs expertise** - Access to a **global network of 2,000+ specialized clinical sites** - Proprietary **GlobalReady program** for seamless transition from early-phase to late-phase programs worldwide ### About **Avance Clinical** Avance Clinical is the largest premium, full-service CRO headquartered in [Australia](https://www.avancecro.com/the-australian-advantage/), delivering high-quality clinical trials for international biotechs across **Australia, New Zealand, [Asia](https://www.avancecro.com/the-asia-advantage/), [North America](https://www.avancecro.com/the-north-american-advantage/), and Europe**. With over **30 years of experience** and expertise spanning **250+ therapeutic indications**, we provide: - Preclinical to late-phase clinical trial services. - Best-in-class regulatory, scientific, and operational expertise - Recognized leadership with multiple Frost & Sullivan CRO Market Leadership and Customer Value Leadership Awards **Partner with us to accelerate neuroscience drug development.** # Meet our experts [![Francesco Bibbiani, MD, CPI](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Francesco-Bibbiani-aspect-ratio-800-920.png)](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/francesco-bibbiani/) ### [Francesco Bibbiani, MD, CPI](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/francesco-bibbiani/) Vice President & Therapeutic Area Head, CNS Center of Excellence [![Francesco Bibbiani, MD, CPI's LinkedIn Profile](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/themes/tpt/img/svg/icon-linkedin.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-bibbiani-md-4554267/) [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/francesco-bibbiani/) [![Marty Kraut Ph.D., PMP](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Marty-aspect-ratio-800-920.png)](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/marty-kraut-ph-d/) ### [Marty Kraut Ph.D., PMP](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/marty-kraut-ph-d/) Director of Operations, CNS Center of Excellence [![Marty Kraut Ph.D., PMP's LinkedIn Profile](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/themes/tpt/img/svg/icon-linkedin.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-kraut-phd-pmp-8774909/) [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/marty-kraut-ph-d/) [![Jorgen Mould](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Jorgen-M-aspect-ratio-800-920.jpg)](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/jorgen-mould/) ### [Jorgen Mould](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/jorgen-mould/) Senior Vice President, Global Scientific & Regulatory Affairs [![Jorgen Mould's LinkedIn Profile](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/themes/tpt/img/svg/icon-linkedin.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgen-mould-11333079/) [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/jorgen-mould/) [![Annie Roten](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Annie-Roten-aspect-ratio-800-920.png)](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/annie-roten/) ### [Annie Roten](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/annie-roten/) Director, Strategic Site Solutions [![Annie Roten's LinkedIn Profile](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/themes/tpt/img/svg/icon-linkedin.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-roten-0933a4170/) [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/annie-roten/) [![Kevin Leach](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Kevin-L-aspect-ratio-800-920.jpg)](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/kevin-leach/) ### [Kevin Leach](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/kevin-leach/) Senior Vice President, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs [![Kevin Leach's LinkedIn Profile](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/themes/tpt/img/svg/icon-linkedin.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-leach-ph-d-dabt-86ba992/) [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/meet-the-team/kevin-leach/) ## Find out more and book a meeting now ## **Related CNS articles** [![CNS Trials Are Difficult — Do They Have To Be?](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CNS-Trials-Are-Difficult-—-Do-They-Have-To-Be-aspect-ratio-40-27.png)](https://www.avancecro.com/knowledge-center/cns-trials-are-difficult-do-they-have-to-be/) 11 March 2026 ### [CNS Trials Are Difficult — Do They Have To Be?](https://www.avancecro.com/knowledge-center/cns-trials-are-difficult-do-they-have-to-be/) Central nervous system (CNS) indications, including mood disorders, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases, and chronic pain, affect more than three billion people worldwide and represent the leading cause of illness and disability globally1. [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/knowledge-center/cns-trials-are-difficult-do-they-have-to-be/) [![The Phase 2 Endpoint Dilemma: Bridging Subjective Scales and Objective Measures in Neurodegenerative Trials](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/03-31-26-Avance-Social-1000x1200-1-aspect-ratio-40-27.png)](https://www.avancecro.com/webinars/the-phase-2-endpoint-dilemma-bridging-subjective-scales-and-objective-measures-in-neurodegenerative-trials/) 11 March 2026 ### [The Phase 2 Endpoint Dilemma: Bridging Subjective Scales and Objective Measures in Neurodegenerative Trials](https://www.avancecro.com/webinars/the-phase-2-endpoint-dilemma-bridging-subjective-scales-and-objective-measures-in-neurodegenerative-trials/) Phase 2 neurodegenerative trials are increasingly challenged by slow disease trajectories, heterogeneous patient populations, and blunt legacy endpoints that struggle to detect treatment-related change over typical study durations. [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/webinars/the-phase-2-endpoint-dilemma-bridging-subjective-scales-and-objective-measures-in-neurodegenerative-trials/) [![Avance Clinical Unveils Dedicated CNS Center of Excellence for Expert Clinical Trial Services in Neuroscience](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CNS-Neurons-pink-aspect-ratio-40-27-1200x810.png)](https://www.avancecro.com/news/avance-clinical-unveils-dedicated-cns-center-of-excellence-for-expert-clinical-trial-services-in-neuroscience/) 28 October 2025 ### [Avance Clinical Unveils Dedicated CNS Center of Excellence for Expert Clinical Trial Services in Neuroscience](https://www.avancecro.com/news/avance-clinical-unveils-dedicated-cns-center-of-excellence-for-expert-clinical-trial-services-in-neuroscience/) - [Company news](https://www.avancecro.com/news/?_sft_news_category=company-news) Avance Clinical announced the launch of its Center of Excellence dedicated to central nervous system (CNS) disorders. [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/news/avance-clinical-unveils-dedicated-cns-center-of-excellence-for-expert-clinical-trial-services-in-neuroscience/) [![Unveiling the Potential of Psychedelic Therapies: Key Insights for Biotech Decision Makers](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/iStock-1496034818-small-aspect-ratio-40-27-1200x810.jpg)](https://www.avancecro.com/knowledge-center/unveiling-the-potential-of-psychedelic-therapies-key-insights-for-biotech-decision-makers/) 25 June 2024 ### [Unveiling the Potential of Psychedelic Therapies: Key Insights for Biotech Decision Makers](https://www.avancecro.com/knowledge-center/unveiling-the-potential-of-psychedelic-therapies-key-insights-for-biotech-decision-makers/) The rapidly evolving field of psychedelic therapies offers a promising frontier for medical research, particularly in treating mental health and neurodegenerative diseases. [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/knowledge-center/unveiling-the-potential-of-psychedelic-therapies-key-insights-for-biotech-decision-makers/) [![Psychedelics in Focus: Clinical Trials, Transformations and Regulations](https://www.avancecro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Neuron-image-800x540.png)](https://www.avancecro.com/webinars/psychedelics-webinar/) 21 May 2024 ### [Psychedelics in Focus: Clinical Trials, Transformations and Regulations](https://www.avancecro.com/webinars/psychedelics-webinar/) Join us for an informative webinar as we delve into the world of psychedelic trials and the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding these transformative therapies. [Read more](https://www.avancecro.com/webinars/psychedelics-webinar/)