The BCRI is an Academic Research Organization affiliated to the Federal University of Sao Paulo. It was founded with the objective of enhancing and formalizing both scientific and operational clinical research expertise, respecting national and international ethical principles and regulations. The BCRI Board comprises faculty members of the Federal University of Sao Paulo from the department of medicine who are well known and respected within Brazil. Some features of the BCRI include: an academically - based partnership for sharing information, resources, and responsibility; collaborations with industry in designing scientifically important and practice-friendly clinical protocols; access to an unparalleled global network of investigators; the support and promotion of peer reviewed publications; an excellent understanding of the regulatory requirements in Brazil and Latin America; an overarching commitment to improving the practice of medicine and the outcomes of patients; the education and training of physicians in clinical research methods and operations. Our clinical and operational staff has many years of experience in conducting and managing clinical research in multiple health care areas and working in collaborative relationships with academic and contract research organizations.