Meet Janice—ensuring those with MS don’t stress.
Q: What is your role in health research?
A: I am a clinical research coordinator with the Multiple Sclerosis and Neuromyelitis Optica (MS & NMO) Clinical Trials Group at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health. I facilitate testing of potential treatments and observational studies in patients with MS. This includes submitting applications to regulatory boards, collaborating with other laboratories, and acting as point-of-contact for sponsors, vendors, patients, principle investigators and various departments.
Q: What is your research area of interest, and what sparked that interest?
A: I find working on clinical trials very intriguing. Clinical trials are the bridge between the laboratories and actual patient care. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of people’s life. Previously, I worked in health care and I know how to apply science to real life. Clinical research paves the way for the safe and ethical use of new therapeutics.
Q: What’s the best part about your research job?
A: The best part of my job is all the opportunities it provides, both for me and others. I’ve had the chance to travel and experience new places, as well as to share ideas with other researchers from all over the world. It’s also great to be able to interact with patients. Every study participant I meet is so grateful for the opportunity to help discover a potential treatment for a disease that has no cure.
Q: What does your average day look like?
A: Every day is unique, but generally I respond to emails, check participant appointment times, prepare and submit regulatory documents, create documents to obtain relevant data, seek department approvals, follow-up on participant’s activity and more. It’s usually quite busy!
Q: What would you do if you weren’t a researcher?
A: If I weren’t involved in research or health care, I might consider opening a small café with aromatic coffee and yummy desserts.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: My biggest inspiration comes from my aunt, who has worked as a nurse for more than 25 years. Her selfless contribution and dedication to her patients over many years is truly admirable. I hope I can make an equivalent contribution to society.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?
A: I have not visited the Maldives before. A trip to a beach with clear waters where I can spend time close to nature, fish and corals—sounds like a perfect holiday!
Q: How do you spend your free time?
A: I enjoy spending time with my family. We like to go for nice meals and explore the city before settling in for the night and reading a bedtime story together.
