Sub-contracting in Clinical Trials

Sub-contracting in clinical trials proves to have privileges in comparison to other projects. In Horizon 2020 projects, core activities cannot be sub-contracted. When it comes to peripheral activities, although it is possible to assign work to sub-contractors (while ensuring “best value for money”), it is still known to be frowned upon by the EC. The rationale behind this is rather simple – the official beneficiaries are responsible and liable to their own financial management vis-à-vis the EC via a contractual relationship (the Grant Agreement). But when it comes to sub-contractors the situation is different: The EC does not have a direct contractual relationship with them, hence limited ability to monitor their performance.  Therefore, in most areas of Horizon 2020 it is highly recommended to avoid or reduce the work delegated to sub-contractors.