Lynda Constable

Lynda Constable
Lynda tells us about how she juggles all the balls all of the time and deals with the unexpected in her job role as a Deputy Senior Trial Manager.

 

Tell us about your role at HSRU

I am one of the deputy senior trial managers in the unit. My role is to lead the trial management of a portfolio of clinical trials, as well as providing oversight to other trials in the unit and mentoring of the trial management and data co-ordinator teams. Trial management is very diverse and we are involved in all aspects of running a trial, from protocol/CRF development, to training sites on how to run the trial locally, developing new strategies/methodology, to writing reports, scientific papers and dealing with the unexpected. The role requires lots of flexibility and communication in order for the trial to succeed – a bit like juggling all the balls all of the time!

Tell us a bit about your background and what you do now

I come from a research background, having completed a PhD and post-docs in molecular biology, focussing on cancer research. This background supports my current role as I still use many of the skills/techniques I learnt as a student.

How do you usually start your day?

I usually start the day with an early dog walk then a much needed cup of tea before heading to the desk to go through emails and plan the day ahead.

What is your favourite thing about your job?

The people, obviously, but also the diversity. Often the plan for the day is turned on its head by a last minute interruption/change/request/training need. It certainly keeps me on my toes!

How do you relax outside of work?

When not being a taxi service to various neighbourhood children (!), long dog walks in the nearby woodland area/local parks or catching up with friends for a much needed cuppa.

What was the last book you read?

The last book I read was Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don’t Know by Malcolm Gladwell.

Lynda's answers were provided in February 2023