Alumni Spotlight: David, MSc Clinical Trials

Where do you identify as home?

Originally from NYC, I've lived in London for over 20 years so this is my home now.

What is your fondest memory of your time at UCL?

I know this will sound very geeky, but I actually enjoyed going to the various UCL libraries (I probably hit them all eventually!) to either study, work on course papers and ultimately my dissertation. As a 'mature' student, I liked being on campus with other students and finding the energy and some of the experiences that I enjoyed when I was an undergraduate 30 years prior. Strictly speaking, I could have done all I needed to do at home but that did not appeal to me as much.

Tell us a bit about the work you are doing now....

After working in the NHS for a few years in clinical research, I am currently self-employed. Since becoming free-lance, I have worked as a CRA (clinical research associate), trial manager and also work with companies that need advice navigating the UK clinical research environment.

How did your UCL degree help you get to where you are now?

Although I was already working in the field for 2 years, having career switched from organic chemistry, the MSc provided a strong theoretical and academic background that I was lacking in clinical and medical research. In addition, the degree also focuses on the 'nuts-and-bolts' involved in running a trial so being able to bounce off practical questions to colleagues on the course and tutors was equally invaluable. Both of these aspects of my degree have helped me progress in my career and would have been quite difficult, without a more lengthy timeframe, to achieve.

What have been your career highlights?

I have been fortunate to work on a number of interesting trials in different disease areas, although I have most enjoyed and am most familiar with multiple sclerosis, where I worked on a few studies as well as part of my dissertation.

Nevertheless, I would have to say that my career highlight to date has been working on the RECOVERY COVID-19 trial as trial manager for Barts Health NHS Trust. This was a critical trial that has impacted millions globally and was fortunate enough to be involved with it and able to help during the pandemic.

What would be your advice for current students?

Although there will be some days when you ask yourself 'why am I doing this?!' stick with it and more to the point enjoy it! Even though I went for the University Challenge team two times (and both times failed at the 2nd hurdle) would still recommend doing things you couldn't easily do elsewhere outside of university when given the opportunity.