Charles River Laboratories International, Inc.

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. is an American pharmaceutical and biotechnology contract research organization (CRO) headquartered in Wilmington, Massachusetts. Founded in 1947, the company's core business is to provide essential products and services that accelerate the discovery, development, and safe manufacture of new therapies for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government agencies, and academic institutions globally. Its mission is to partner with clients to bring life-saving treatments to patients.

The company operates through three primary segments: Research Models and Services (RMS), Discovery and Safety Assessment (DSA), and Manufacturing Solutions. The RMS segment provides laboratory animals, including genetically engineered models, and related diagnostic and insourcing services. The DSA segment offers preclinical and clinical laboratory services, such as safety assessment, toxicology studies, and bioanalysis. The Manufacturing Solutions segment focuses on microbial solutions, biologics testing, avian vaccine services, and contract manufacturing for cell and gene therapies.

In a notable leadership transition, James C. Foster is set to retire as Chairman, President, and CEO on May 5, 2026, with Birgit Girshick, currently COO, appointed as his successor. Dr. Martin Mackay will assume the role of Chair of the Board. Recent developments include the launch of rat In Vitro Fertility (IVF) services in April 2026 and new executive appointments for Chief Financial Officer and Chief Legal Officer in February 2026. Charles River Laboratories is recognized as one of the largest CROs globally, playing a significant role in the drug discovery and development services sector.