Subsequent events (Notes)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Subsequent Events [Abstract]

Subsequent Events [Text Block]

SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On July 31, 2017, the Company announced that it will acquire Chiltern, a specialty contract research organization, pursuant to a definitive agreement with Chiltern’s shareholders in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $1,200.0. The Company expects to fund the acquisition through a combination of bank financing and bonds. The transaction is subject to regulatory and customary closing conditions, and is expected to close in the fourth quarter, 2017. Once the transaction is complete, Chiltern will become part of the Company's CDD segment.