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Clinical Trials Management Expertise
Pre-Award Services
Budget Development & Coverage Analysis

Lora Smith
Clinical Research Support Specialist
Lora Smith is a seasoned clinical research professional with nearly a decade of experience across both sponsor/CRO and site settings. Her therapeutic expertise spans endocrinology, oncology, gastroenterology, cardiology, and gynecology. Lora has led comprehensive study start-up processes, including contract and budget negotiations, calendar builds in OnCore, and sponsor relations. With a strong background in financial management and operational coordination, Lora brings a strategic and collaborative approach to supporting clinical trials from initiation through execution.

Vanessa M. Ebichi
Clinical Research Billing Compliance & Budget Analyst
Vanessa M. Ebichi has over a decade of experience in healthcare operations and clinical research finance. She specializes in Medicare Coverage Analysis, budget development, and billing compliance, ensuring financial integrity and streamlined processes for clinical trials.

Sophia Jackson
Clinical Research Coverage Analyst
Sophia Jackson began her career in clinical research as a coordinator for hematology-oncology trials, quickly gaining hands-on experience in complex study protocols. Transitioning into her current role as a Clinical Research Coverage Analyst, Sophia provides critical support to both oncology and non-oncology study teams. Her expertise lies in conducting detailed coverage analyses, systematically reviewing clinical trials to determine billable costs to insurance or other payers versus sponsor-covered expenses. Her meticulous approach ensures financial compliance and supports the effective management of trial budgets.

Rachel Elkhoury
Clinical Research Operations Specialist
Rachel Elkhoury brings a dynamic background in clinical research and financial analysis to the Clinical Trials Office. A Minnesota native with proud Lebanese roots, Rachel holds an MBA from the Carlson School of Management and dual undergraduate degrees in Physiology and Psychology. She has extensive experience in clinical trial budgeting, sponsor negotiations, and OnCore system management. With a passion for operational excellence and collaborative solutions, Rachel is excited to support the CTO’s mission of advancing clinical research.

Martin O’Malley
Clinical Research Operations Specialist-Lead
Martin O’Malley is a seasoned research and business professional with over a decade of experience in clinical research finance. He specializes in the development and negotiation of clinical trial budgets and conducts comprehensive coverage analyses. Martin’s expertise spans industry-sponsored, NIH, grant-funded, and internally funded studies. His strong financial acumen and deep understanding of clinical trial operations ensure that trials are executed efficiently, with accurate budget management and regulatory compliance.