MERIT Executive Spotlight is a series featuring executive team members introducing themselves and explaining why they chose to work in the clinical trials industry and at MERIT.
With over 10 years of experience in clinical trials, including extensive hands-on experience in central imaging for oncology studies, Alex is proficient in quality and risk management and has a deep understanding of ICH-GCP and imaging endpoint guidelines.
What is your role at MERIT?
As Director of Project Management, I oversee the daily operations of MERIT’s PM China team. My role includes leading the team in monitoring data review and quality control functions. We provide training and support for clinical sites, reading centers, and clients using EXCELSIOR™ and ensure study compliance for the lifecycle of a project.
Our operations team plays a key role in delivering central imaging study management services to Sponsors during clinical trials. We also help the Product Development team with designing and optimizing our proprietary software system, EXCELSIOR. Our team works closely with Sponsors and sites to provide expertise in imaging procedures and efficacy assessments, with the goal of bringing new treatments to the market sooner.
What do you like about working at MERIT?
I enjoy working with MERIT’s team of experienced radiologists and medical affairs experts, who greatly enhance the quality of our services on the medical and scientific levels. I appreciate how open-minded and supportive my colleagues are and how well our multi-regional teams collaborate.
How do you see your department fitting into the company as a whole?
Project Management communicates with both internal and external groups to ensure the smooth delivery of central imaging services on time and on target. We effectively translate Sponsor expectations to make sure all study milestones are met.
Why did you get into clinical research?
I have been working in the CRO industry for over 10 years. Through my extensive PM experience in various indications, I have realized the value of central imaging services. My main interest lies in oncology trials. I find a great sense of achievement whenever a new treatment is approved which could help patients in the fight against cancer.
What do you do in your free time?
I enjoy reading, traveling, and cooking. I honed my cooking skills during the pandemic. Prior to that time, I knew nothing about cooking. After repeated practice with hundreds of failures I’ve found I can cook some Chinese dishes all by myself. (I have no idea why Chinese dishes are so complicated to make!). I also enjoy spending time with friends, playing computer games, and watching movies.
Here are a couple of my cooking successes:
