Who We Are

IIT Research Institute (IITRI) is a midsize preclinical contract research organization located in Chicago, Illinois. For more than 60 years, we have supported government agencies, biotechnology companies, and pharmaceutical partners with high quality science and a collaborative, hands‑on approach.

Our size allows us to offer the scientific depth of a large CRO while maintaining the personal attention, responsiveness, and direct access to experts that sponsors value most. We work as an extension of your research team, helping you move programs forward with clarity and confidence.

• IITRI history

• IITRI Publications and Press Mentions

Our Approach

At IITRI, every study begins with a conversation. Sponsors work directly with experienced scientists who stay engaged throughout the entire project. We prioritize transparency, flexibility, and scientific rigor, creating a partnership model that adapts to your needs rather than forcing you into rigid processes.

Our teams collaborate closely across disciplines, ensuring thoughtful study design, efficient execution, and clear communication at every step.

• IITRI advantage

• Animal welfare

Our Scientific Expertise

IITRI offers comprehensive preclinical research capabilities supported by long‑tenured scientific teams and fully integrated onsite laboratories. Our expertise spans toxicology, pharmacology, inhalation studies, infectious disease, and analytical sciences.

We have conducted GLP compliant studies since 1979 and maintain strong relationships with regulatory agencies. Our long standing partnership with the National Cancer Institute reflects our commitment to scientific excellence and reliability.

• Capabilities overview

• Toxicology and pharmacology

• Clinical trial sample analysis

• Inhalation and respiratory research

• Infectious disease and medical countermeasures

Our Facilities

All study functions operate within our 100,000 square foot Chicago facility. This single‑site model allows for seamless coordination, faster communication, and consistent quality across every phase of a study.

Our facility includes:

• Fully accredited vivarium for rodent and non‑rodent species

• ABSL 2 and ABSL 3 plus containment suites

• Inhalation exposure suites for small and large animals

• Onsite analytical, bioanalytical, microbiology and molecular biology, immunology, histopathology, and clinical pathology laboratories

• QA/QC unit and relevant accreditations

Our People

IITRI’s greatest strength is its people. Many of our scientists, research support staff, and business team have been with the organization for more than a decade, providing continuity, deep institutional knowledge, and a genuine commitment to sponsor success.

We believe science is personal. When you work with IITRI, you know exactly who is running your study and how to reach them.

• IITRI Leadership

Join Our Team

We are always looking for talented scientists, administrators, and research professionals who want to contribute to meaningful preclinical research.

• Careers at IITRI