ICON maintains its place as the most active contract research organization (CRO) for Q2 2026, and France knocks Russia from its spot with the most clinical trials initiated in Europe, according to a report by GlobalData, a leading intelligence and productivity platform.

GlobalData’s latest report “Q2 2026 CRO Activity and Intel Report,” reveals pain was the most studied central nervous system (CNS) indication during Q2 2026, with 647 trials. This was a significant drop compared to 1,019 trials in Q2 2025.

Kathryn Kinch, Pharma Product Manager at GlobalData, comments: “Pfizer led among large- and mega-cap sponsors of drug trials. Oncology trials dominated the landscape, making up the largest share of new trials, with solid tumors as the most studied indication and pain leading in CNS research.”  

The report also identifies the top 10 trial sites in North America, Europe, and the rest of the world based on the number of trials initiated. 

On a global scale, oncology was the leading therapeutic area of focus in Q2 2026. Following closely behind, CNS diseases accounted for 1,489 trials, reflecting a robust commitment to addressing complex neurological challenges. However, the quarter saw a slight increase in oncology and a more significant dip in CNS trials compared to the previous year. Within oncology, solid tumors dominated the landscape with 1,583 trials.

The CRO Activity and Intel report is published on a quarterly basis. The data presented in this report reflects the database as of July 9, 2026.