SCRS Talks

Veeva's VP of Strategy, Bree Burks, reveals the strategic vision behind their groundbreaking free CTMS platform—a bold move designed to democratize technology access for clinical research sites of all sizes. Discover why Veeva prioritizes site success through standardization and simplicity, and how selecting the right technology partnerships can empower sites to scale operations and thrive.

Early investment in proper training doesn't just benefit new staff—it strengthens your entire organization and the research ecosystem. SCRS is ready to tackle industry-wide training gaps, transforming research assistants, coordinators, and business teams into confident contributors. Learn how this foundational knowledge accelerates success and helps your team navigate challenges with clarity and purpose.Save your seat today for the hands-on "Back to Basics" workshop at the Global Site Solutions Summit this September in Orlando. This intensive training equips research newcomers with must-have skills to thrive in clinical trials.

Sit down with Rick Ward, Chief Commercial Officer at CRIO, to discuss the emerging concept of central eSource in clinical research. Rick explains how this model, which builds on the traditional eSource framework, can enhance standardization, streamline data collection, and reduce the burden of manual transcription. The conversation highlights the importance of site-driven technology, the flexibility required for real-world implementation, and the need for strong support infrastructure. Explore how CRIO's approach is reshaping source documentation and creating new opportunities for both sites and sponsors.

Clinical research in Europe presents unique challenges, from navigating country-specific regulations to addressing language barriers and patient travel logistics. Scout's Moisha Platto and Courtney Dodge share how tailored solutions are enhancing clinical trial efficiency across Europe and what this means for sites, sponsors, and patients. Hear strategies for improving patient engagement, streamlining reimbursements, and ensuring compliance with regional regulations. 

SCRS's Karri Venn takes a deep dive into the current state of clinical research coordinator salaries with Stacie Merritt, Director at Ascension St. John Clinical Research Institute. We analyze compensation trends, including salary ranges and bonuses, and how organizations can remain competitive in a rapidly evolving job market. Learn how sites of all sizes and types are compensating their workforce and the key factors influencing coordinator pay. Don't miss this essential conversation packed with data-driven insights to help your site refine its compensation strategy, improve staff retention, and stay ahead in a competitive workforce landscape. 

Clinical trials must represent the communities they serve—and the SCRS IncluDE Program is equipping research sites to make that a reality. In this episode, SCRS' Kathy Mickel sits down with Kim Ribeiro, IncluDE Program co-chair, to discuss how sites and industry partners can make trials more accessible to all communities. We tackle the importance of staying focused on the science, cutting through the noise, and having real conversations about what's working (and what's not). Tune in to hear why the IncluDE Site Solutions Summit is a must-attend event for sites, sponsors, and solution providers—and how you can be part of the collective shaping the future of representative research.

Megan Gross, Associate Director of Clinical Site Services at AiCure, shares how innovative strategies and AI-driven solutions are shaping the future of patient-centric clinical research. We explore common barriers to medication compliance, the role of trust and engagement, and how AI-powered technology can enhance adherence. Hear practical interventions that sites can implement to support participant adherence, engagement and retention.

David Vulcano, SCRS Honorary President, breaks down the recent ICH GCP R6 E3 revisions and explores their practical impact on clinical research sites. He discusses key topics such as the decentralization of trials, updated record retention guidelines, and the rising importance of digital health technologies and cybersecurity. David highlights that, although there's considerable hype and some uncertainties, the new guidelines generally codify existing practices rather than overhaul them. The episode serves as a practical guide for sites to align their operations with both local regulatory requirements and the updated GCP standards while maintaining an open dialogue with sponsors and CROs.

Mike Stratton, President of CSSi, an Elixia company, discusses best practices for building trust and transparency with clinical trial participants. Mike shares the impact of trust-building initiatives and patient-centric communication on retention, medication adherence, and overall trial success. Tune in to hear how CSSi is reshaping patient engagement—ensuring participants feel valued, informed, and supported every step of the way.

Rani Khetarpal, Executive Lead at TSTrials, discusses their recent collaboration with SCRS as a Global Impact Partner. TSTrials, a South American site management organization, specializes in infectious disease, oncology, and rare disease trials. Rani highlights their success in patient retention through innovative navigation programs and their vision to position South America as a key destination for global clinical trials.

Dr. William (Bill) Smith, CEO of Alliance for Multispecialty Research (AMR) and the 2024 Christine K. Pierre Site Impact Award winner, unpacks the industry's biggest challenges—from investigator shortages to study oversaturation—and why site advocacy is more critical than ever. With over 40 years in clinical trials, he reflects on SCRS Founder Christine K. Pierre's lasting legacy and how he continues to amplify the site voice in research.

Adam Kinsey, Associate VP of Clinical Operations at Merck, shares the site-focused initiatives that earned Merck the Eagle Award for three years in a row. Discover how Merck stands out through transparency, site support, and initiatives like streamlined site payments and protocol simplification. Tune in for insights on how industry partners can adopt similar strategies to improve site partnerships and clinical trial success.

Scout is on a mission to alleviate logistical and financial burdens for patients globally. Courtney Dodge, Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives at Scout, shares insights on Scout's recent partnership with SCRS and practical advice for sponsors and sites to strengthen patient-centered strategies and reduce participation barriers. Learn how Scout is driving patient-centric strategies through personalized travel solutions, financial support, and meeting logistics. 

Jonathan Gardow, VP of Business Development at FOMAT Medical Research, shares insights into the strategies that earned FOMAT recognition for their patient-centric approach to clinical research. Hear about FOMAT's innovative use of AI-powered tools like their virtual assistant "Lucy," AI-driven voiceovers, and automated text messaging to enhance patient engagement and retention. Learn how these technologies streamline operations, build trust, and boost efficiency while preserving meaningful human connections. Additionally, Jonathan explores the expanding role of AI in clinical trials, offering practical advice for sites looking to adopt emerging solutions.

In this episode, SCRS takes a deep dive into some of the most pressing challenges that clinical trial sites are confronting in 2025. Join us as we explore the current state of site payments, workforce trends, diverse recruitment, and the growing role of technology-enabled trials. We'll unpack the reasons behind these challenges, from payment terms and reimbursement struggles to the complexities of diversity and technology adoption. Tune in as we discuss how to break through these barriers and create a more inclusive, sustainable and innovative future for clinical trials.

Join Jena Daniels, VP of Customer Value at Medable, as she shares how Medable is transforming clinical trials through patient-centric innovation. Jena shares insights on the value of Medable's Patient Caregiver Network, strategic partnerships with organizations like Rare Patient Voice, and their commitment to supporting research sites.Tune in to learn how Medable is improving the clinical trial experience for patients, caregivers, and sites alike by incorporating patient and site feedback into their products.

Learn how mobile research units and personalized transportation are transforming access for rural and underserved communities with Dr. Jyoti Angal, Director of Clinical Research at Avera Research Institute (ARI). Dr. Angal discusses the power of intentional recruitment and community outreach to foster inclusion and trust in clinical trials, earning them the 2024 SCRS Excellence in Patient Inclusion Award.  Don't miss expert advice on making clinical research more inclusive and engaging, with strategies to elevate your site's patient recruitment and retention efforts.

Alyssa Boschen, Regional Site Director at IMA Clinical Research, discusses the growing challenge of investigator shortages and how it impacts clinical research studies. Alyssa highlights how advanced practice providers (APPs), such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, are stepping in to help bridge the gap as investigators. Discover how these medical professionals support research site operations and find new career opportunities in clinical research.

Join Dustin Owen, CEO of Elixia, as he discusses the company's unique Clinical Site Organization (CSO) model and its role in successful clinical trials. With a focus on enhancing patient recruitment and delivering quality data, Elixia is reshaping how trials are managed in complex therapeutic areas like nephrology and psychiatry. Discover their innovative strategies for boosting trial efficiency and overcoming common enrollment challenges with agile site management.

According to the Center for Information and Study on Clinical Research Participation (CISCRP), traveling to a clinical study is the top reason trial participation is disruptive for patients. Learn more about the complexities of patient travel in clinical trials and what the industry is doing about it with Chris Benevides, Director of Patient Travel Services at Elligo Health Research®. Chris offers valuable insights on early planning, risk mitigation, and specialized travel services that can set up sites for success. Discover how travel support can improve patient recruitment and retention, making clinical trials more diverse, accessible, and patient-friendly. 

In this episode of SCRS Talks, we welcome Rob Hummel, COO and co-founder of Suvoda, to discuss Suvoda's new role as an SCRS Global Impact Partner. Rob shares insights into Suvoda's mission to simplify clinical trials for sites and patients through cutting-edge technology. He highlights how Suvoda's integrated platform — featuring core products like eConsent, IRT, eCOA, and ePatient — helps drive greater efficiencies at sites. Rob also offers a look into how artificial intelligence is shaping the future by reducing administrative burdens and allowing sites to focus more on patient care.

Discover how patient-finding technology is revolutionizing the way sites identify eligible patients for research studies, streamlining manual processes, and unlocking the potential of electronic health records. Stephen Jasperse from IQVIA and Michal Janota from St. Anne's University Hospital discuss the challenges and breakthroughs with implementing this innovative solution. Explore the benefits of utilizing patient finder technology beyond patient recruitment, including data insights, research support, and improved patient outcomes.

In this episode, Dr. Christine Senn, Senior Vice President of Site/Sponsor Innovation at Advarra, explores the challenges of study startup and the risks posed by working in isolation. She emphasizes the power of moving from siloed processes to integrated collaborations between sponsors, CROs, and sites. Through real-world examples, Dr. Senn demonstrates how this collaborative approach is driving results in healthcare — accelerating timelines, reducing costs, and ultimately improving patient access to clinical trials.

Rare disease trials come with unique challenges, and independent research sites are well-equipped to tackle them. Hamish Baird and Jennifer Botte of Remington-Davis discuss the role of independent sites in rare disease trials and their logistical and operational challenges when executing complex studies. Tune in to hear about effective strategies for patient recruitment, site-sponsor collaboration, and the benefits of flexible, patient-focused approaches in rare disease research.

As technology drives breakthroughs in clinical research, it's also transforming how clinical trials are managed. Join Clay Williams, Vice President of Mobile Applications at Greenphire, to learn how their platform GreenSpace is simplifying clinical trial participation. From submitting receipts to tracking reimbursements, hear how GreenSpace removes barriers for both participants and sites, and how it's impacting projects like the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance's patient registry.

Rosie McKellar, CEO of the Pacific Clinical Research Network (PCRN) New Zealand, shares insights from her organization's innovative network partners model and their deep commitment to patient outcomes. PCRN's efficient recruitment strategies and speedy trial execution have positioned New Zealand as a key player in global clinical research. Rosie also discusses PCRN's collaboration with SCRS as a Global Impact Partner and what's next for clinical research in New Zealand and Australia.

Join us as we welcome new SCRS team member Lauren Stockwell, Content and Engagement Manager, with an insightful conversation about the value of mentorship in the clinical research community. Lauren shares her passion for empowering the next generation of clinical research professionals, highlighting SCRS's newly launched Mentorship Program. Explore how purposeful mentorship can elevate site professionals both personally and professionally, and offer practical tips on how site members can get involved. Tune in to learn how SCRS is creating meaningful connections to support the growth and success of site professionals!

Leigh Burgess, CEO and founder of Bold Industries Group, reveals how applying design thinking can transform clinical research operations. Learn how radical prioritization and the innovative D90 framework can help organizations cut through complexity, enhance teamwork, and accelerate trial results — delivering more efficient outcomes for patients and stakeholders alike.

Michelle Ray, Director of Customer Success with Greenphire, explores the challenges that delayed payments pose to research site sustainability. Michelle highlights key issues like the burden of delayed payments on site operations and recruitment, the complexity of invoicing, and the role of technology in simplifying payment workflows. Learn how innovating payment systems can streamline financial processes, creating a more sustainable future for sites, patients, and sponsors alike.

Renuka Agarwal, CEO and co-founder of UpTrials, is revolutionizing site workforce challenges. Renuka shares the inspiration behind founding UpTrials, and how the platform is making a significant impact by matching research sites with skilled candidates. Learn how UpTrials is streamlining the hiring process, improving time-to-fill rates, and bringing much-needed innovation to clinical research hiring processes.UpTrials is AI-driven software designed to help clinical research employers hire top talent quickly. The platform algorithmically matches employers with prescreened candidates who have clinical research experience, training, or transferable skills, covering roles from coordinators to site leadership. Employers can contact UpTrials at info@uptrials.com, and job seekers can sign up at app.uptrials.com.

In this episode, we'll explore the transformative power of collaboration and advocacy in the pursuit of life-altering treatments. Meike Madelung from IQVIA's EMEA Thought Leadership team takes us through a compelling case study featuring the AKU Society and its groundbreaking efforts in combating Alkaptonuria. Learn how patient organizations can help accelerate recruitment for rare disease trials.

Input from research sites is essential for developing clinical technologies that are practical, efficient, user-friendly, and aligned with the real-world needs and challenges of trials. Understanding this need, Medidata Solutions hosted an interactive Site Tech Board through SCRS to learn how to improve their technology and processes directly from sites. Tune in as Robin Douglas, Vice President of Research Site Engagement at Medidata, highlights how the organization is creating a better experience for sites and patients through this feedback.

Ophthalmology, a medical specialty focusing on the structure, function, and diseases of the eye, has a growing role in non-ophthalmic studies. Jessica Mays, Vice President of Life Sciences at 20/20 Onsite, shares common challenges sites face with trial-related eye assessments and how to accurately budget for these types of services. Tune in to learn how 20/20 Onsite is making ophthalmology research more accessible to sites and patients through mobile services.

Celebrate clinical trial innovation with Catherine Pitman, Lead Research Nurse at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, recipient of the 2023 European Site Spark award. Catherine shares how the pandemic brought on new opportunities to enable more accessible clinical trials through the launch of a Mobile Research Unit (MRU). Hear how her organization's passion brought on new ideas and resolutions to problems created during the pandemic, and ultimately led to Plymouth Research and Development earning the Site Spark award.

Michelle Hartman, Director and Owner of South Broward Research, speaks with David Unger, Director of Operational Excellence and Site Payment Lead at Merck, about tackling clinical research site payment delays. David shares how Merck identified and addressed key challenges in their payment processes, leading to more timely payments and improved site satisfaction. Hear how Merck implemented various strategies including system upgrades, process simplifications, and better communication with sites. Learn how your organization can strive for continuous improvement and collaboration to enhance site payment efficiency.

Did you miss SCRS West: Clinical Tech & Innovation Summit? Hear some highlights from the discussions – hot topics, what sites are experiencing, and what's next for trial tech. SCRS Honorary President, David Vulcano, shares key insights from the Summit on how sites and industry partners can navigate tech challenges and optimize collaborative operations.

This episode features Thad Wolfram, President of EmVenio Research. As EmVenio joins the SCRS Global Impact Program (GIP), Thad shines light on EmVenio's dedication to providing clinical trial access for underrepresented and underserved communities. The episode further touches on the importance of diversity, community, and how localized data can help expand a clinical trial's international footprint.

Hidden costs remain a persistent challenge for clinical research sites. With over two decades of experience, SCRS Project Manager Mike Pierre discusses the evolution of hidden costs, the ongoing efforts by SCRS to address them, and the launch of a Hidden Costs workshop.  Whether you're a site owner, budget negotiator, or industry sponsor, this episode provides valuable insights into the complexities of clinical trial budgeting and the impact of hidden costs. Learn how to equip your organization's budget and contract professionals with the knowledge to navigate and negotiate hidden costs effectively.>>Join us for the Hidden Cost workshop at the Global Site Solutions Summit.>>Download the SCRS Site Invoiceables Toolkit.

Carlos Bussey, CEO of Accelerate Recruitment Services, dives deep into the groundbreaking innovations his company is bringing to the table and their role in the SCRS Global Impact Partner program. Hear the journey of this forward-thinking organization working to support clinical research sites and revolutionize patient recruitment.

Gary White, the Senior Director with EMEA Strategic Site Solutions at IQVIA explores the evolution of patient-finding technology. In this episode, discover how IQVIA's digital solutions are reshaping traditional data collection methods, unlocking new possibilities for research sites and patients. Uncover the transformative impact of digital patient-finding technology on research site operations. Join us as we discuss the challenges, benefits, and future prospects of integrating these technologies into clinical trials.

Meet SCRS Global Impact Partner, Science 37! Dr. Debra Weinstein, Vice President of Internal Medicine, discusses Science 37's dedication to site success and collaboration. Hear insights into Science 37's initiatives, including their referral network and recruitment strategies, as well as their groundbreaking Metasite™ model.

Jillian Agnew, Senior Clinical Research Nurse at St. Johns Center for Clinical Research, shares insights on the power of personal connections in keeping trial participants engaged. From navigating trial fatigue to overcoming protocol challenges, hear the nuances of patient interactions that shape the success of long-term trials. Tune in to learn how to foster meaningful connections to create lasting participant retention and engagement.

Joseph Kim, Chief Strategy Officer at ProofPilot, shares the challenges and triumphs of implementing innovation in the clinical research field. Joseph highlights lessons learned and insights from ProofPilot's Innovation Playbook on the importance of problem-solving and collaborative value creation. Discover practical tips for finding funds, navigating tight timelines, and bringing innovation to life! 

Hear from Dr. Lestter Cruz Serrano, the Global Head of Medical Affairs at Cognizant Health Sciences Group, as he shares the intricacies of site advocacy in clinical research. Discover how Cognizant's Shared Investigator Platform (SIP) has evolved over the past four years to address challenges faced by clinical research sites. Utilizing insights from an SCRS Site Advocacy Group (SAG), Cognizant shares the impactful enhancements made to SIP based on valuable site feedback. Gain insights into the future of SIP and the role of sites in driving its innovation.

Learn how dynamic benchmarks are shaping the future of clinical trial finances, offering adaptability, transparency, and stronger relationships between sponsors, CROs, and research sites. Shelley Douros, the Senior Director of Clinical Trial Financial Management, and Tina Mincher, the Director of Client Strategy at Medidata share their revolutionary CAP approach (Committed, Anticipated, and Projected) that is transforming how budgets are approached. Tune in to learn how to ensure fair market value and foster better collaboration with clinical research site partners.

Dawn Strelow and Vinita Navadgi from IQVIA Technologies explore how the clinical research industry is revolutionizing patient consent. Dawn, the Associate Director of Client Engagement, and Vinita, the Senior Director of the Digital Patient Suite, discuss the nuances of eConsent and challenges faced by clinical research sites, including practical solutions and steps for successful eConsent adoption. 

Anne-Marie Baughn, Director of Business Development with RxTrials, shares the invaluable benefits of strategic partnerships and volunteering in the clinical research industry. Anne-Marie sheds light on RxTrials' unique approach to empowering smaller research sites, emphasizing quality in study conduct and research site management over sheer size. 

In this episode, explore the extraordinary journey of Kits4Life with Lori Warrens, Director of the MedSurplus Alliance. Kits4Life is a cross-sector initiative developed by the clinical research community to repurpose clinical trial supplies, lab kits, and equipment to close the healthcare gap worldwide. Lori shares the program's inspiring growth and impact on a global scale, from its humble beginnings to becoming a driving force in healthcare sustainability. Gain insights into the challenges faced, the value of industry collaborations, and the program's role in fostering a sustainable future.

Karen McIntyre, Vice President of Site Alliances at Parexel, shares the impact and initiatives that contributed to their earning of the coveted SCRS Eagle Award in 2023. Hear valuable advice for industry organizations aspiring to build successful relationships with sites through the power of communication, trust, and shared goals. Karen also sheds light on Parexel's strategies to continually enhance and expand its site-focused efforts. 

Hear the inspiring story of Larry Falivena, an ALS patient advocate, who shares his journey through his ALS diagnosis and navigating clinical trials. Larry's diagnosis in 2017 marked a profound shift in his life, prompting him to cherish each moment and advocate for ALS awareness. Despite the grim prognosis, Larry's engagement in clinical trials offers hope for ALS patients. Hear the emotional and logistical hurdles often faced by ALS patients in accessing and engaging with clinical trials and how the industry can improve the patient experience. As we reflect on his journey, Larry's insights inspire us to collectively improve patient outcomes by overcoming barriers to trial participation. His story highlights the critical role of patient involvement in research and the need for accessible trials.

Hear the award-winning community engagement strategy of Ascension St. John Clinical Research Institute as Stacie Merritt and Dr. Jane Bryce share insights on their successful approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical research. Discover how their innovative BRIDGE framework, commitment to health literacy, and continuous presence have led to meaningful results within their community. Tune in for valuable advice on overcoming diversity recruitment challenges and fostering collaboration with industry partners for more inclusive clinical trials.