BIOGRAPHY: I have been working in clinical research for over 10 years. I have had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of trials with several different roles within each project. Every new project builds and strengthens different skills while learning about a new population, disease or procedures. In research we are constantly growing and learning.

What is your interest in clinical trials?
• I enjoy working in clinical research as it allows me to continue building a variety of skills, while working with different investigators and populations.

Why do you think clinical trials are important?
• Clinical Trials can impact the lives of patients and people. Every day trials are being carried out to find new standards of care, or new treatment combinations that can improve the lives and quality of life. Clinical trials allow for the investigations of the interventions to be carried out in a safe and regulated way.

What is your personal philosophy about clinical trial training specifically or mentorship in general?
• Being a mentor allows you to draw from one’s bank of experiences; this could be specifically related to clinical trials, or other skills that were perfected outside of the research world. It is important to take an assessment of the obstacle, the skillset and take time to evaluate the safest and best decision to work through the obstacle. Every learner has their own individual skills, and knowledge. A mentor must meet the learner where they are at, and provide a supportive environment and allow space for skills to be developed and room for adaptation throughout the learning process.

FUN FACT: I love gardening!