Dr. James Carlson | Founder and CEO
James D. Carlson is from rural Iowa and completed a B.S. in Pharmacy from the University of Iowa (1971), a Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Michigan (1976) and an Accredited Clinical Pharmacy Residency at Buffalo General Hospital, NY (1976). He completed his tour of duty as a pharmacist with the US Public Health Service, Indian Health Service Division in New Mexico and Oklahoma (1971-1974). His career continued as Associate Professor at North Dakota State University College of Pharmacy (1976-1986) before venturing into the business world.
Carlson is currently:
- Scientific Advisor to Axis Clinicals, MN, a CRO (2017-present)
- CEO/co-owner Paul Bunyan Tree Nurseries, a nursery and tree care service (2009-present)
- founder/partner/investor in Linn Grove Ventures (2009-present)
- CEO/owner Retain Pharmacy Solutions, LLC, a research pharmacy service (2005-present)
- CEO/owner JDC Development (2004-present), a real estate development firm
Carlson’s business learning curve included:
- CEO/owner of PRACS Institute, Ltd., a full-service pharmaceutical contract research organization (aka CRO) in Fargo, ND, East Grand Forks, MN, and San Diego, CA (1990 to 2006)
- VP/co-owner/co-founder Pharmacology Research and Clinical Studies Institute (dba PRACS), ND, a CRO (1983-1990)
His experience also includes:
- Exec VP Reven Pharmaceuticals, CO, a drug development start-up (2019-2022)
- CEO for investor owned Cetero/PRACS 2.0-North America, a CRO (2011-2012)
- CEO of Algorithme Pharma-USA, a CRO (2014-2017)
- Partner in The Wilds RV Park and Golf Course (2008-2013)
- CEO/founder JDC Management, consulting services (2009-2022)
- Interim CEO Cetero Research USA – formerly PRACS (2006)
- President/owner PRACS Dermatology LLC, CA, a clinical dermatology research operation (2004-2006)
- President/owner/founder PRACS Bioanalytical Laboratory Ltd, a drug assay development company (1993-1996)
- President/Co-founder/co- owner Clinical Development Associates, a marketing team representing small drug research service companies (1992-1993)
- owner/founder PRACS Pharmacy, ND, a drug research pharmacy (1988-2005)
Carlson was major advisor for eight NDSU College of Pharmacy graduate students and has over seventy publications including book chapters and scientific posters. He has been active in regional, national, and international pharmacy and pharmaceutical industry associations.
Carlson’s honors from community and professional groups include: 2016 Bowl of Hygeia Award by the American Pharmaceutical Association, their highest professional recognition; 2013 Friends of ASP Award for support of NDSU Academy of Pharmacy students; 2009 Pathfinder Award from the Red River Research Corridor; 2007 Distinguished Alumni Award for contributions to the pharmacy profession from University of Iowa College of Pharmacy; 2007 Patriotic Employer from The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve; 2006 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in Midwest Region Life Sciences; and the 2005 North Dakota Business Innovator of the Year for entrepreneurial achievement from ND Economic Development. But, his most cherished award was 1998, The CEO Award presented by PRACS Staff for Vision, Success, Dedication and Commitment to PRACS Staff and PRACS Institute, Ltd.
Carlson’s favorite wall hanging and advice to staff and colleagues is simple. His parents instructed him to never use 4-letter words, CAN’T is a four-letter word.
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