Meet Jackie, a dedicated researcher and manager whose heart is in the details.
Q: What do you do as part of the VGH Cardiac Research Team?
A:I oversee operations and provide leadership to the team. For our clinical trials and registries, I liaise with colleagues, industry and academic institutions. I am also a study coordinator, responsible for ethics applications, enrollment and monitoring patient progress. Lastly, I do budget negotiations, account management and financial reports.
Q: Why are you interested in this area of research?
A:There’s a lot to learn especially in the area of premature heart disease and heart disease that affects women. I enjoy learning and working with a team that is collaborative, engaged and committed to their patients and the community.
Q: What has been the proudest moment of your career thus far?
A: In my current job, we work as a team. It’s always a proud moment when our site is recognized for its quality of work and finishing top in overall patient enrollment.
Q: What’s the best work advice you were ever given or would pass on to budding, young researchers?
A: You have to take time to learn the administrative stuff. Regulatory compliance is important for industry sponsored and investigator initiated trials. These details ensure quality work and helps protect patients, researchers and the site.
Q: What do you see yourself doing in 20 years?
A: I hope I’m still learning and contributing in some way in health care. Maybe I’ll have time for a dog!
Q: How do you like to spend your non-working hours?
A: I try to stay connected with families and friends—getting outdoors and having dinners together. But I also really like my quiet time. I love designing clothes and sewing them myself. I also take on lots of home improvement projects.
Q: What’s your healthiest habit?
A: Staying away from processed foods.
Q: If you won a free vacation to anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: I saw a very interesting documentary on Antartica and hope to go there one day. Preferably not during the time of year when it is in 24hrs of darkness!
