ICON plc

ICON plc is a global clinical research organisation (CRO) that provides outsourced development and commercialisation services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and government clients. Founded in Dublin in 1990 by a team of five, the company now employs nearly 40,000 people across 95 locations in 55 countries.

Its work spans the full clinical development lifecycle, with a stated focus on reducing time to market, cutting costs and improving quality for clients bringing drugs and devices to market. In 2024 the company supported 1,465 studies involving nearly 48,000 patients for 406 customers, and contributed to 18 drug approvals. Beyond clinical development, ICON plc offers commercialisation services across a broad range of therapeutic areas.

Technology forms a core part of the offering. ICON plc combines AI-enabled solutions, data and analytics with its clinical expertise to deliver development results. The company has grown both organically and through strategic acquisitions, and positions itself as a partner guiding clients through an evolving clinical development landscape.