Advice from a PI: Getting Started in Clinical Trials
By Priya S. Vakharia, MD
I was first exposed to clinical trials during fellowship at Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston. From there, I had the bug: I knew I would be involved in clinical trials as a sub-investigator and, eventually, a principal investigator (PI). Newly minted retina specialists and retina fellows who have an interest or openness to clinical trial collaboration may struggle to find a starting point. If that sounds like you, hopefully learning a bit about my experience can guide you.
Methods of First Exposure
Retina clinical research comes from both private practices and academic centers, and retina fellows in either setting are likely exposed to clinical trial work during their training. Trainees quickly grasp whether or not they’re a fit for clinical trial participation upon entering practice. For those still in training who haven’t adequately been exposed to this type of work, I recommend actively seeking involvement with attendings who are engaged in clinical trials.
Clinicians whose training programs did not include clinical trials exposure should consider consulting post-fellowship resources such as the Women in Ophthalmology Clinical Trials Training Program and the ASRS Women in Retina Clinical Trials Incubator. In a broader sense, networking with other young retina specialists in forums such as the ASRS Early Career Section may unlock opportunities for learning and experience with clinical trials. From there, you can decide if clinical trials are a fit for your interests and motivations.
Expressing Interest and Being Available
While the support of my attendings and practice partners laid the bedrock for my progression from sub-investigator to PI, I also created opportunities for myself by expressing interest and seizing opportunities when they presented themselves. This is especially true when first leaving fellowship.
When I joined Retina Vitreous Associates of Florida, I found that I had to make myself available for any clinical trial work that practice leadership took on. Taking on this work grew my confidence—and gave me the chance to build trust with my colleagues. In short order, I was evaluating if clinical trials were right for our practice and working as a PI.
Key to Success in Clinical Trials
Smooth integration into clinical trials is achieved by following a few basic tenets.
Start Small: If you’re new to clinical trials, starting with a smaller trial will familiarize you with the various challenges and protocols. Once you’re comfortable, you can gradually scale up to larger studies with greater complexity.
Be Available: The essence of participation lies in being present. Whether it's attending clinical trial meetings or accommodating patient schedules, availability is crucial. You can’t dance if you’re not at the dance.
Understand Recruitment: Recruitment is vital. Deepen your knowledge of your patient base so you understand what studies your site could successfully enroll.
Foster Positive Team Dynamics: The right team, especially support staff and colleagues who share the same passion for research, can make all the difference.
Have a Mentor: Find an experienced PI to whom you can to turn for advice. Candid guidance and feedback are crucial to growth.
Engaging in clinical trials requires a blend of passion, understanding, and commitment. Researchers who are well-equipped and aligned with the objectives of the trial will find that the experience appeals to their scientific curiosity and allows them to contribute to the field.
About the Author
Dr. Vakharia practices at Retina Vitreous Associates of Florida in Tampa, Florida.