SYDNEY -- Novotech, a leading global full-service clinical research organization (CRO) and scientific advisory company, has released a new white paper, Early-Phase Oncology - Clinical Research Landscape and CRO Enablers (2025), offering in-depth analysis of the key drivers shaping early-phase oncology development.

With approximately 60% of oncology agents progressing from Phase I to Phase II, but only 3-6% reaching regulatory approval, the paper outlines the factors influencing early-stage success, including trial design, patient selection, and regional development pathways.

The paper highlights Australia’s continued position as a global first-in-human (FIH) and early-phase research hub. Its ethics-led review frameworks, which can support trial initiation within roughly 4-8 weeks, combined with established FIH centers, oncology networks, and cost efficiencies, position Australia as a practical starting point for programs that later expand into the US, Europe, and broader Asia markets.

The analysis provides biotech and pharmaceutical sponsors with analysis of how modern trial methodologies, precision-based approaches, and coordinated global execution are shaping early-phase oncology. It also highlights Novotech’s role in supporting these programs through scientific expertise, regulatory alignment, and access to more than 5,500+ trial sites worldwide.

Key areas covered:

·Global Early-Phase Oncology Landscape: Geographic trends, therapeutic innovation, and investment momentum driving new oncology pipelines.
·Emerging Trial Designs: Adaptive, biomarker-driven, and decentralized models improving speed, inclusivity, and data quality.
·Regulatory Shifts: The impact of initiatives such as the U.S. FDA’s Project Optimus in advancing evidence-based, patient-centric dosing strategies.
·Novotech’s Role as a CRO Partner of Choice: The organization’s early-phase oncology expertise and technology-driven model help sponsors manage risk, shorten timelines, and strengthen data quality.