Meridian Clinical Research, a leading multi-specialty site network, has hired Michelle Hurst as Director of Operational Project Management.
In her role, Hurst will focus on optimizing performance and operational continuity across Meridian’s 23 sites. Before joining Meridian, Hurst was Director of Clinical Research at McKesson’s Intrafusion Research Network. At Intrafusion, Hurst developed and directed the company’s multi-specialty clinical research management program for more than 40 sites, including neurology, rheumatology, ophthalmology, and dermatology practices. “I am honored to join Meridian, a team that maintains the highest standards of quality and of patient care,” said Hurst.
“Michelle’s firsthand, repeat experience in growing sustainable research sites is an important asset for Meridian,” said Nicole Osborn, Founder and CEO of Meridian. “We’re growing. As we expand existing site operations and add locations nationwide, quality will remain our first priority. Michelle will be integral to the way we continuously improve SOPs and fulfill our growth strategy.”
Osborn said Meridian’s unique approach to in-house quality assurance, employee training, and regulatory management have further strengthened its relationships with Sponsors and CROS. Meridian won the 2020 Vaccine Industry Excellence (ViE) award for Best Clinical Trial Site, along with the ViE award for Best Clinical Trial Network as the largest member of Platinum Research Network.
“We listen to clients,” Osborn said. “Their feedback drives our operating model and how we invest for the future. Michelle will help solidify Meridian’s position as the industry’s definitive partner of choice by refining our operations.”
In 2020, Meridian enrolled more than 5,000 participants into COVID-19 vaccine studies. The company is a leader in high-volume and specialty vaccine trials, and is a top site network for neurology, pediatrics, women’s health, and general medicine studies.
Sponsors and CROs interested in partnering with Meridian should email Andrew Kimball, VP, business development, at akimball@mcrmed.com.