Staff Spotlight: Isabel Dao
Isabel Dao serves as Senior Clinical Project Manager at Red Maple Trials.
Her responsibilities include leading overall project key activities and risk mitigation, budget management, clinical monitoring and quality assurance.
Isabel has worked in the clinical research industry for the past ten years in various therapeutics areas in the academic and industry setting. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Anatomy and Cell Biology at McGill University, and is also a member of the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA) where she holds her certification.
What is it about clinical research that interests you?
I enjoy many aspects of the clinical research field, especially being able to work in various studies and diseases in different stages of a trial. Every study and project is unique in its approach and requires different skillsets to successfully execute it. At Red Maple Trials, I have the opportunity to be able to manage multisite studies with leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies, as well as managing early phase studies at our unique Ottawa facilities. I feel fortunate to play an active role in the development of new medicines that can potentially affect millions of lives, therefore improving patient’s quality of life and having an immediate impact on their families.
What are the skills a project manager needs for success?
The role is about solving a puzzle with components that evolve and shift constantly. A great project manager needs to be organized, able to prioritze and have excellent communication skills in order to effectively support and mentor their team and work in a collaborative approach with clients to deliver the study. Time management is also a very important skill; ideally, they would also be able to attend 4 meetings at the same time!
How can effective project management help with the success of a study?
Effective and proactive planning of a study serve to break down tasks for each team member and drive the accomplishment of each of the major study milestones successfully. Assessment of potential risks ensures prevention of situations and obstacles and therefore allows the project manager to anticipate risks and find effective alternatives beforehand.
What do you like to do outside of work?
When I am not busy managing the challenges of clinical studies, I apply my managing skills in the household with my twin boys and my husband. I also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and yoga.