Skills and weaknesses that I bring to this course…

I have a broad based knowledge about many things, but desire more in-depth understanding about the topics that I pursue.  In this respect, you can say that my love and quest for knowledge is both a strength (in that I’m always seeking to learn something new) and a weakness (in that I can become easily bored and quickly distracted). In my career, however, I have been on a steady course for the last 14 years in research compliance and ethics. I have become quite the expert in human subjects protection in clinical trials and behavioral studies and have a growing understanding of animal research.

Interests (related to the course themes) that I bring to this course…

I have keen interest in research autonomy and how practically that is carried out in the informed consent process.  Specifically, those most vulnerable in our communities which include the economically disadvantaged, racial and ethnic minorities, the uninsured, low-income children, the elderly, the homeless, those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and those with other chronic health conditions, including severe mental illness (See more at: http://www.ajmc.com/publications/supplement/2006/2006-11-vol12-n13Suppl/Nov06-2390ps348-s352#sthash.pLKT7tqP.dpuf).  I would also include pregnant women and expand the definition of children to include neonates.

Skills and weaknesses that I would like to leave with at the end…

I would like to learn how to shelve or move beyond established views so I can see issues in a new light.  Also, I would like to develop techniques for thinking through complex issues more quickly so I can contribute in “real time” instead of mulling it over until I have a reasoned, thought-out answer.

Interests (related to the course themes) that I would like to leave with at the end…

Physicians and researchers have an obligation to keep the public’s trust, but I wonder how much self-interest, conflicts of interest, pressure for results or complacency interferes with informed consent process.

Ideas about the path to bridge to then from now…

I would like to pilot monitoring some of the social behavior studies to determine how well the consent process is going.