Leaders with the UNMC Clinical Research Center this week announced that Lara Uphoff has accepted the position of clinical research manager.
Uphoff brings nine years of clinical research experience to the role, with demonstrated expertise across multiple areas of clinical research operations. Her background includes her current work as a clinical trials analyst at Nebraska Medicine, her previous role as a regulatory coordinator at UNMC and hands-on experience as a clinical research coordinator at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center.
“This breadth of experience will be a valuable asset to the organization as we advance our efforts to shorten clinical trial activation timelines, increase clinical trial opportunities and strengthen support for our investigators and study teams,” said Katie Penas, director of research operations in the Clinical Research Center, which provides research support and education to the UNMC and Nebraska Medicine research community.
In her new role, Uphoff will report through the UNMC Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and work collaboratively with Penas, Matt Lunning, DO, assistant vice chancellor for clinical research, and Rusty McCulloh, MD, associate vice chancellor for clinical research.
“We are excited to have Lara join the CRC leadership team,” Dr. McCulloh said. “The Clinical Research Center serves a vital role in the academic and research mission for UNMC and its academic affiliates. I am confident Lara will ensure that this incredible team continues to execute at the highest standards of efficiency, compliance, and customer service.”
Uphoff, who has a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Minnesota, will begin her transition into the clinical research manager position on May 4.