OCT DACH 2025: Geopolitics, trial equity, and technology in focus

The Outsourcing in Clinical Trials (OCT) DACH 2025 conference, hosted by Arena International in Zurich, Switzerland on 1213 November,placed advanced technology at the forefront. Attendees explored both established and emerging digital tools including AI, digital twins and automation systems, all drawing strong interest from professionals involved in clinical trial operations, recruitment and data analysis.

The event gathered specialists from across the sector for its ninth year, featuring discussions ranging from contract research and techsolutions to regulatory frameworks specific to clinical research. Although enthusiasm around technical innovations was high, speakers alsoaddressed the challenges of implementation, pairing concerns with forward-looking strategies and potential solutions.

Geopolitics and Stability Planning

A major portion of the agenda focused on geopolitical uncertainty, recognising that global tensions, economic conflicts, climate issues and pandemics continue to disrupt clinical trial planning. Experts noted that unforeseen events influence site selection, trial activity and contract arrangements, making adaptability crucial.

Amir Ahari of Novartis emphasised the value of flexible contracts that include provisions for events such as cyberattacks, shiftinggovernment regulations and public health emergencies. He also recommended incorporating contingency clauses to strengthen resilience. Ahari highlighted that strong international connections and collaboration with CROs and experienced partners can help companies stay prepared for unpredictable changes.

AIs Expanding Footprint in Clinical Development

Artificial intelligence was another core theme, recognised for its rapid growth and potential to reduce manual workload across clinical research. Joo Gonalo Nascimento of Pfizer stated that pharmaceutical companies are well positioned to develop in-house AI tools due to their substantial resources, though the industry is still defining the most effective roles for generative AI.

Nascimento suggested that AI could eventually replace traditional feasibility surveys, speeding processes for trial sponsors while reducingburden at study sites. He also noted future promise in agent-based AI systems able to perform human-like tasks, though manual oversight remains necessary.

Piotr Maslak of AstraZeneca remarked that broad adoption of AI will depend heavily on trust. He described the shift from manual data analysistowards prompt-driven outputs as a fundamental change in working habits, requiring teams to adapt their methodologies and expectationsas new systems evolve.

Equity in Global Clinical Trials

Trial equity was also a central discussion point, with participants examining how to ensure medicines are developed for diverse populations.Maria Rigoroso-Brandt of Pfizer highlighted progress but noted that meaningful representation in clinical studies is still incompleteworldwide.

She stressed the importance of sex-specific data inclusion, urging that gender-based analysis become standard rather than supplementary.Nascimento agreed, cautioning that real-world data may unintentionally favour certain demographic groups. He recommended active oversight to detect and correct bias, including review of both data inputs and AI-generated models.

Panellists also underlined the value of collaborating with patient organisations, which can provide insights into the needs and experiencesof those most affected by clinical outcomes.

This recap is based on reporting about the OCT DACH 2025 conference and summarises key insights shared by industry leaders regarding technology, equity and geopolitical resilience in the future of clinical research.

Author: Gavin Porter