TFS HealthScience Strengthens Global Ophthalmology Unit With Key Hires

TFS HealthScience Expands Its Ophthalmology Division



TFS HealthScience (TFS), a renowned global Contract Research Organization (CRO), is advancing its ophthalmology business unit with the recruitment of new leadership talent and an integrated operational model designed to meet the growing demand for specialized eye care clinical trials. The global ophthalmology market is projected to reach nearly $94 billion by 2030, up from about $60 billion in 2023, highlighting the need for CROs capable of managing complex global programs and delivering innovative solutions in eye care.

In this dynamic landscape, TFS is responding by aligning its operational framework with therapeutic needs, establishing a dedicated team that brings expertise in critical areas such as retina, cornea, and neuro-ophthalmic diseases. Under the guidance of Markus Granlund, the new CEO, TFS has adopted a decentralized structure empowering therapeutic areas to take ownership of end-to-end delivery.

Marcia Swank, Vice President and Head of Ophthalmology, is at the forefront of this initiative, positioning TFS as a preferred partner for companies developing therapies and devices for eye disorders. "In ophthalmology, every day matters for sponsors striving to innovate and for patients awaiting better options," Swank stated. "As trials become more complex and technology reshapes the landscape, CROs must evolve to provide faster and smarter patient-centered services. At TFS, we've built a globally connected team with the vision, structure, and motivation to achieve this goal. This team isn't just any team; it's the best."

Among the new ophthalmology team members is Bhakti Patel, who takes on the role of Senior Director of Project Execution. Patel brings nearly 20 years of clinical research experience involving sponsors, sites, and CROs, with specialized expertise in executing ophthalmology trials and developing devices. She has spearheaded the establishment of a specialized unit for site optimization and oversees strategic management of device-related programs, ensuring that every ophthalmology initiative is backed by in-depth expertise, operational alignment, and sponsor-focused solutions.

"It's an honor to join such a strong and experienced ophthalmology team at TFS during this growth phase," Patel remarked. "Ophthalmology trials require tailored execution, and this group has implemented the necessary infrastructure, agility, and depth to meet that challenge. I'm proud to help sustain this momentum and support our partners in providing innovative treatments for patients."

Currently, TFS manages a diverse portfolio of early and late-phase ophthalmic studies across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The team has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s footprint in APAC and supporting globally executed programs, including one that recently received FDA approval. Ongoing studies encompass geographic atrophy due to age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, retinal vein occlusion, neurotrophic keratitis, and gene therapy programs for retinitis pigmentosa, showcasing the team's therapeutic depth and capability to support both large and small sponsors from first-in-human development to post-marketing commitments.

Moreover, TFS has fostered innovative partnerships to incorporate digital technologies into ophthalmology trial processes, including a recent collaboration with RetinAI and MAXO to leverage AI-driven imaging and analytics in clinical development.

As TFS continues its transformation, the ophthalmology business unit, alongside its counterparts throughout the organization, exemplifies what is possible when strategic leadership, global infrastructure, and scientific depth align to meet the evolving needs of today's clinical development landscape.

About TFS HealthScience


TFS HealthScience is an international Contract Research Organization (CRO) collaborating with biotech and pharmaceutical companies to advance innovative treatments and improve patient outcomes. Operating in 50 countries, TFS and its strategic partners provide tailored strategic resource solutions and clinical development services in specialized therapeutic areas, including dermatology, internal medicine, neuroscience, oncology, and ophthalmology. Committed to empowering partners and enriching lives, TFS offers flexible solutions that blend global reach with the adaptability and responsiveness of a mid-sized CRO. Find out more at www.tfscro.com.

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