In this installment of our “Meet the Team” blog series, we talk to Meghana Kapoor, Manager, Clinical Data Management, about her background, her experience with establishing the Veranex Clinical Data Management team in India, and why it is so important to stay calm as challenges arise during clinical trials.
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.
I’ve had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles within the life sciences industry over the past 16 years, and I have been leading various data management teams since 2017. Some of my previous positions include Senior Clinical Data Coordinator at Quintiles (now IQVIA), Product Data Manager at Navitas Life Sciences, and Manager Data Management at Quartesian before transitioning to my current role at Veranex.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO JOIN VERANEX?
When Quartesian was acquired by Veranex, I was excited to join the data management team. My role was to help establish an office and our Clinical Data Management team in India. It is probably my most exciting project to date!
I used my previous experience to help train the team to effectively manage complex studies and varying data management demands while effectively communicating with clients. I am quite proud of the high-quality work that we consistently produce. I love to help the team address data management challenges and multi-faceted questions from our clients and sponsors.
ARE YOU USING YOUR ACADEMIC DEGREE OR PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IN YOUR CURRENT POSITION?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Sri Bhagawan Mahaveer Jain College, so I don’t use it too much in practice! But my education in life sciences has helped inform my work now in clinical research. I have thoroughly enjoyed my academic and professional journey so far and hope that continues as I progress in my career.
WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT OR MEMORABLE THING YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE WORKING AT VERANEX?
I try to remain calm and positive in all situations, no matter the level of stress. I have learned that panic frequently causes people to make bad decisions. Instead, I ask my team to listen, evaluate the information, and fully understand the situation before making a recommendation. The best solution is often the one that requires slight adjustments rather than re-work.
HAS THERE BEEN AN INTERESTING PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE THAT’S STOOD OUT FOR YOU?
Each and every one leaves a mark in my memory; however, my immediate supervisor is someone I particularly admire. He always goes above and beyond for our clients and recognizes the hard work of others.
WHAT INTRIGUES YOU THE MOST ABOUT SUPPORTING CLINICAL RESEARCH?
I’m proud to contribute to the new drugs that come to market each day to make human life better and pain-free, particularly because I know our work touches many lives.
WHAT VACATION DESTINATION ARE YOU DREAMING OF?
The destination doesn’t matter — it’s the journey and companion that matter!