Commercial Research Delivery Centre

Accelerating access to innovative medicines through clinical trials: Lothian’s CRDC, supported by the UK-wide VPAG initiative, is expanding capacity for high-quality commercial clinical trials, strengthening research infrastructure, building specialised teams, supporting advanced therapies, and bringing innovative treatments to patients faster.

What is VPAG?

The Voluntary Scheme for Branded Medicines Pricing, Access and Growth (VPAG) is a UK-wide, five-year initiative designed to expand the country’s capacity to deliver commercial clinical trials.

  • A partnership between the UK Government and the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI)
  • Supports the creation of 21 new Commercial Research Delivery Centres (CRDCs) across the UK

Lothian’s CRDC at the Western General Hospital (WGH)

The new CRDC at WGH strengthens Edinburgh’s Clinical Research Facilities (CRFs) and boosts capacity for commercial clinical trials.

Why it matters

  • Increases Lothian’s capacity for high-quality commercial clinical trials
  • Enables faster access to innovative medicines for patients
  • Supports a growing portfolio of advanced therapies

CRDC Leadership team

Professor Neeraj (Bean) Dhaun

CRF/CRDC Director

  • University of Edinburgh

Contact details

Dr Corrienne McCulloch

CRF Deputy Director

  • NHS Lothian

Contact details

Dr Rebecca Sutherland

VPAG Lead

  • NHS Lothian
  • Overseeing strategic and operational delivery

Contact details

Upcoming enhancements in Lothian

VPAG funding will support several key infrastructure upgrades:

  • New aseptic pharmacy unit at WGH
  • Advanced ophthalmology equipment and staffing
  • Focus on Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs)

Dr Victoria Campbell

ATMP Programme Lead, Consultant Haematologist

  • NHS Lothian
  • Collaborating with the Northern Alliance Advanced Therapies Treatment Centre

Contact details

This article was published on