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NAMs in Focus: Insights from Biotech Symposium
NAMs Momentum from the Biotech Symposium
As the life sciences community moves toward more predictive, humane, and efficient drug development, New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) have become a key focus of both promise and debate. This was especially clear at the 2025 Charles River Biotech Symposium, where scientists, regulators, and industry leaders gathered to discuss how NAMs can transform the future of safety assessment.
To set the stage, Julie Frearson, PhD, Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer at Charles River, offers a timely perspective on the evolving NAMs landscape:
The acronym ‘NAMs’ has become increasingly used in scientific literature and news feeds since the FDA’s April 2025 announcement to drive their increased use in human risk assessment. We believe that, as validation and regulatory confidence grow, human risk assessment will become an integrated suite of datasets — with NAMs complementing critical in vivo studies to deliver a comprehensive view of safety. As a global leader in safety assessment, Charles River is well-positioned to drive this adoption and readiness for future regulatory shifts.”
Julie Frearson, SVP, Chief Scientific Officer
Learn more about the Alternative Methods Advancement Project and join us in shaping the future of research.
Biotech Symposium's Core Environment
The 29th annual Biotech Symposium’s lively exchange of ideas took place within an environment shaped by a commitment to progress, transparency, and scientific rigor.
The Charles River Biotech Symposium is my favorite scientific meeting. The complete engagement of all attendees really drives the success and impact. The shared learnings help everyone to meet the ultimate goal — getting important medicines to patients.”
John Davis, Senior Vice President, Preclinical Development, Dyne Therapeutics
It was a pleasure attending the Charles River Symposium. Always good to be there — I always learn a lot. However, this year I was somewhat disappointed — most likely my own fault due to wrong expectations. I had hoped for a clearer roadmap for NAM-based safety assessment for monoclonal antibodies. The ‘Think & Drink’ discussion was amusing and aligned with my understanding, but I was expecting more. Or is there really no NAM-based way?”
Jörg Herbst, Owner and Founder of NCMA Consulting GmbH
Such feedback does not detract from the significance of the event; rather, it emphasizes the core spirit of scientific inquiry that characterizes this annual symposium. The event’s commitment to open dialogue—including the notable Think & Drink session—provided participants with opportunities to express both support and constructive criticism, thereby contributing to a nuanced understanding of the field’s current state and future direction.
Over the years, this meeting has consistently provided a unique forum for scientific exchange and dialogue. In addition to the standard presentations and Q&A, the ‘Think & Drink’ session again encouraged debate — and this year did not disappoint.”
Mary Ellen Cosenza, PhD, President of MEC Regulatory & Toxicology Consulting
From frank conversations to constructive critique, this year’s Symposium exemplified the transparency and partnership required to advance science responsibly. As regulatory frameworks evolve and NAMs continue to mature, Charles River remains committed to leading the dialogue — ensuring that innovation is not only achieved, but shared, debated, and strengthened through collaboration.
Because true progress is built on partnership — and every conversation moves us closer to a future where science is more predictive, ethical, and human-relevant. Connect with our experts driving NAMs innovation.