The year was 1985. It began with the creation of the internet’s domain name system and USA for Africa’s recording of the now-iconic “We Are the World” charity single record, and concluded with the debuts of the Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable automobiles.

Somewhere in between was the release of “Back to the Future” and New Coke, Route 66’s decommissioning, discovery of the Titanic wreckage, and the founding of Nelson Labs, a provider of microbiological and analytical chemistry testing and advisory services for the medical device and pharmaceutical industries. Having opened as a modest laboratory in the University of Utah’s Research Park, Nelson Labs has since grown into an expansive network of 12 locations across North America, Asia, and Europe.

Over the past four decades, Nelson Labs has continuously broadened its service offerings and global presence to meet the evolving needs of its customers while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality and scientific expertise. Key milestones in Nelson Labs’ history include the 2017 addition of a state-of-the-art Extractables and Leachables laboratory in Belgium, which now serves as its European headquarters, and the 2021 acquisition of a US-based regulatory compliance advisory business. During this time, Nelson Labs has also expanded its pharmaceutical services, making strategic investments to enhance support for drug product manufacturers.

“In celebrating 40 Years of Science and Service, we reflect on our impact and the individuals who have contributed to this tremendous milestone,” Nelson Labs President Joe Shrawder stated. “Our continued success is the product of our scientists, customers, and our teams’ dedication to our shared mission of ‘Safeguarding Global Health.’”

Looking ahead, Nelson Labs remains focused on scientific innovation, ongoing investments in its employees, and further enhancements of its infrastructure. As a partner to top medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturers, Nelson Labs is committed to delivering excellence in laboratory testing and consulting solutions to help safely and effectively bring life-saving products to the worldwide market.

Nelson Labs serves more than 3,000 customers across 12 facilities in the United States, Mexico, Asia, and Europe. With an array of over 900 laboratory tests and the expertise of Regulatory Compliance Associates, a recognized provider of life science consulting, Nelson Labs supports its customers from initial product development and sterilization validation, through regulatory approval and ongoing product testing for sterility, safety, and quality assurance.