CRO Career Conversations: Clinical Operations

Contract research organizations (CRO) operate in many capacities to support the work of life science innovators and help move therapies from idea to market. NCBiotech’s CRO Career Conversations speaker series provides an introduction to key roles within the clinical research industry and the opportunity to learn about career pathways, day-to-day responsibilities, and more from professionals currently in the field.

October's event will focus on careers in clinical operations including clinical research associate (CRA), remote site monitor, and clinical research coordinator roles.

Moderator:

Lynn King
Vice President, Biotech Operations
PPD

Lynn King has over 25 years of experience in drug development and clinical operations. She has her Master’s in Health Administration as well as her Bachelor’s degree in BioMedical Ethics and Public Policy.  She served as Vice President of Clinical Operations, North America Regional Head and currently serves as the VP of Biotech Operations at PPD. She is a leader with experience in drug development plan strategy and operational execution. She also has 20 years of experience in staff development, coaching and training.

Panelists:

Shanta Anthony
Senior Manager, Clinical Operations
PPD

Shanta Anthony’s 19 years of clinical research experience includes 12 years at Duke University Medical Center and Duke Clinical Research Institute (DCRI) and 7 years working at Research Triangle CROs. She began her career as a Clinical Trial Assistant (CTA) and has held roles ranging from Regulatory Supervisor to In-house CRA. She earned a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from the Pennsylvania State University, Level I and II Certificates in Clinical Research from Durham Technical Community College, and a Master’s in Clinical Research Organization and Management from Drexel University. In addition to her role at PPD, Shanta also serves as an Adjunct Instructor in Durham Tech’s Clinical Trials program.

Brittany Laraia
Clinical Research Associate
IQVIA

Brittany Laraia has six years of research experience including three years in drug development and three years in clinical research. She began her career as an analytical chemist at Tergus Pharma before moving into clinical research where she now works as a Clinical Research Associate. Brittany obtained a B.S. in Biology and Chemistry and a Master’s in Clinical Research and Product Development from the University of North Carolina of Wilmington. She plans to pursue a doctoral degree at Campbell University starting Fall 2022. 

Shayna Reilly
Principal CRA
LEO Pharma

Shayna Reilly has a Master’s Degree in Clinical Research from Campbell University and 10 years’ experience as a Clinical Research Associate. She has worked for both CROs and pharmaceutical companies across various therapeutic areas, including oncology, infectious disease and dermatology. Currently, Shayna is a Global Lead CRA for LEO Pharma where she oversees CRAs across 11 countries on an extension study for Atopic Dermatitis. 

Participating Industry