Lauren Chazal has a strong command of the clinical trials industry from a site operations, business development and financial management perspective. She began her career in clinical trial operations with a privately-held multi-site clinical research organization. Since 2012, she has held a pivotal role in business development, M&A and relationship management for clinical research sites globally. Lauren has in-depth knowledge of the complex interactions between clinical research centers, CROs and sponsors combined with a keen understanding of the importance of access to high quality trial sites and patient recruitment solutions.
Lauren graduated from Lehigh University with a dual degree in Finance and Marketing and from the University of Florida with a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). Lauren is a current member and SW Region Treasurer of Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) and board member of International Women’s Forum (IWF) Arizona Chapter as well as a four-time marathon runner.

Joshua Devine brings his operational passion and experience to drive strategic decision making into our Cardiometabolic profile. He is eager to learn and support in building out our site teams’ capabilities in this important therapeutic area. Leveraging his previous knowledge as our Feasibility Analyst, and past experience as a CRC and Clinical Research Manager, he is well positioned to aid our sites in developing strong Cardiometabolic portfolios.

His passion for research cultivated in the Exercise Physiology lab, completing V02 testing for Missouri State University’s athletic teams. After receiving his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology the research journey continued during his Master of Science in Health Promotion and Wellness Management where the focal point of his research shifted to nicotine dependence. Clinvest Research paved the foundations for his career and ignited the passion for clinical research where he spent four years as a clinical research coordinator. The last two of those years were spent in clinical operations where he managed coordinators, refined processes, and developed tools to drive efficiency. During his time as a coordinator and coordinator manager, he received his certification as an ACRP-CP.

Josh enjoys spending time playing basketball, hiking, and enjoying new experiences with his wife, Alyssa, and two children, Rowan and Nora.

Taylor graduated in 2020 with a degree in psychology from UNC-Wilmington, where her interest in research grew as she conducted a capstone study testing olfactory senses when sight was temporarily blocked by a blindfold. After joining TMA, she worked as the Regulatory Director, overseeing Phase I/II/III trials across various therapeutic areas, including vaccines, endocrinology, rheumatology, and dermatology, among others. She played a key role in study startup, working closely with multiple Sponsors and CROs while acting as a liaison between the sites, sponsors, and CROs to ensure smooth trial execution. In late 2021, Taylor assisted in launching TMA’s Myrtle Beach location, further expanding the organization’s clinical research capabilities. Taylor thrives on working with patients and teams to deliver successful clinical trial outcomes.

Outside of work, Taylor enjoys exploring Wilmington, spending time with her French Bulldog at the beach, trying new local restaurants, and reading.

Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Guelph, where she developed an early interest in research. She joined Okanagan Clinical Trials in 2019 and has built experience across both operations and regulatory strategy, supporting studies spanning multiple therapeutic areas and phases. This diverse background has provided her with a well-rounded understanding of the clinical trial lifecycle, including regulatory submissions and site activation. She has also developed strong relationships with CROs and sponsors, helping to enhance trial execution and streamline start-up timelines to better support site operations.

Michelle further strengthened her expertise by earning her Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) designation, deepening her knowledge of clinical trial processes and regulatory frameworks.
Outside of work, Michelle enjoys travelling, exploring new restaurants, baking desserts for family gatherings, and hiking with her beloved dog, Ellie.

Belinda Paez Russell leads strategic growth across Headlands Research’s CNS and mental health portfolio, supporting studies in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, depression, and anxiety disorders. She partners closely with investigators, site teams, and sponsors to strengthen feasibility, optimize recruitment, and align performance across multi-site trials from study start-up through closeout.

Belinda brings over 25 years of experience in clinical research, with a foundation that spans study coordination, regulatory affairs, and quality assurance. She joined JEM Research Institute, a Headlands Research site, in 2017 and later moved into a corporate leadership role, building on a track record of participant-focused recruitment and strong study execution.

While her primary focus is CNS, mental health, and partnership strategy, Belinda also guides select marketing and communications initiatives across the network. From vendor management and content review to campaign support, she helps ensure Headlands communicates clearly and consistently while supporting site visibility and participant engagement.

Favian Perez is a clinical research professional whose career reflects a strong trajectory of growth across site operations, feasibility, and business development within multi-site research networks. He began in patient-facing roles as a Recruitment Lead and Research Assistant, building a foundation in patient engagement, screening, and study support, before advancing to a Clinical Research Coordinator, where he managed diverse trials across indications, including vaccines, respiratory, neurology, and pain. Expanding into Feasibility Coordination and Business Development, Favian developed a data-driven and strategic approach to trial placement, site selection, and sponsor engagement. He has contributed to network-wide initiatives, including the development of enhanced site feasibility tools, PSV readiness strategies, and performance analytics that improve study start-up timelines and operational efficiency. Favian is particularly skilled in identifying market “white space” by analyzing site capabilities, patient population data, and sponsor pipeline trends to uncover new study opportunities and strengthen partnerships. Known for translating complex operational insights into clear, sponsor-facing value, he is well-positioned to drive account growth, optimize portfolio alignment, and support scalable, high-quality clinical trial delivery.

Favian is a Florida native who values creativity and balance outside of his professional work, expressing himself through photography, painting, poetry, yoga, and baking. When he’s not immersed in clinical research, he enjoys starting his day with a Florida sunrise along the beach or exploring new nature trails, drawing inspiration from the outdoors.

With over 30 years of experience in clinical site operations, Michelle is a seasoned professional in the field of clinical research, known for a robust background in vaccine trials and expertise in multi-therapeutic areas. Throughout a distinguished career, she has contributed to over 500 clinical trials, with more than 200 specifically focused on vaccines, demonstrating a profound commitment to advancing medical research and public health.

Currently serving as the Vice President of Therapeutic Area Excellence for Headlands Research Network, Michelle plays a pivotal role in developing and implementing strategic initiatives to enhance vaccine trial efficiency and efficacy. With a track record of excellence, she is dedicated to ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, optimizing study start-up processes, and maintaining high retention rates across all vaccine trials.

Michelle’s leadership and innovative approach have been instrumental in driving Headlands Research Network’s mission to deliver high-quality data and bring safe, effective vaccines to market.

From creating research programs with naïve practices to assisting multi-specialty site networks reach their goals, Tori has seen and done it all. Since 2016, Tori has had a hand in a full spectrum of activities aimed towards creating thriving research programs. For many years, she focused on the importance of cultivating and maintaining relationships—with accounts, with Sponsor/CRO partners, and bridging the gap between those two parties. Prior to joining Headlands, Tori held various Business Development, Account Management, and Operational roles at ClinEdge, giving her a unique understanding from multiple perspectives of what it takes to stand out and be successful.

As a New Orleans native, Tori attended Loyola University New Orleans earning a degree in Social Sciences with a minor in Women’s Studies. In her off time, you will find her kayaking the bayou, attending the myriad of festivals the city has to offer, and hunting down the best food pop-ups with her moody rescue dog, Boudreaux, in tow.

Jordan began his clinical research career in 2011, bringing his love for people and medicine. Prior to joining Headlands, Jordan served as Vice President of Clinical Operations at Peninsula Research Associates, overseeing daily clinical operations along with contributing to business development and negotiation of all trial budgets. His background in Physiology combined with his MBA allowed Jordan to grasp clinical research from all angles and help grow PRA during his tenure.

Jordan received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physiology from the University of Arizona and his Master of Business Administration from the Graziadio School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University. Outside of clinical research, Jordan enjoys skiing, golfing, and spending time with his young family, his wife, and two boys Liam and Riley.

Dr. Bailey is the President of the Headlands Research – AMCR Institute in Escondido, CA, and a clinical associate professor of medicine at the University of California at San Diego, where he helps train endocrinology fellows. He is a past president of the California chapter and former board member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.

He is an interventional endocrinologist and has served as Principal Investigator on more than 200 Phase 1 to 4 clinical trials testing new medications and technology for diabetes including sensors, delivery devices, and the “artificial pancreas.” He has more than 150 peer-reviewed publications. He has a particular interest in medical devices, human factors testing, and real-world trials and strives to improve adherence, persistence, and effectiveness of therapies for people with diabetes.

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Dr. Chavez completed his undergraduate degree at Harvard University and his medical degree at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. After medical school and service in the U.S. Navy, Dr. Chavez completed his psychiatry residency at the University of California San Diego and subsequently earned a Master of Science degree in medical informatics at Northwestern University. As a Principal Investigator at Artemis Research, his main areas of research include addiction disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and attention deficit disorder. Dr. Chavez joined the Artemis Research team in 2014 and has conducted over 50 clinical trials in the CNS/psych space.

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Dr. Sharon Cohen is a behavioural neurologist known for her excellence in patient care, teaching, and clinical research. She completed her neurology residency and behavioural neurology fellowship at the University of Toronto. She is the medical director and site principal investigator of Toronto Memory Program, a community-based medical facility which she established in 1996 for the purpose of enhancing diagnosis, care, and therapeutic options for individuals with or at risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. Under her guidance, Toronto Memory Program’s multidisciplinary team has grown to a staff of 30 individuals. Its memory clinic and research site are among the most active in Canada.

Dr. Cohen has over 28 years of experience in clinical research and has been a site PI for over 100 pharmacological trials. She has participated in acute stroke trials as well as trials in FTD, PDD, DLB, HD, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease, the latter being her primary focus. Her site has been credited as a “go to” centre for Alzheimer’s trials and has been awarded for superior performance and quality in clinical research.

Dr. Cohen represents Canada on international advisory boards and steering committees and is a consultant to a wide range of stakeholders in dementia including government organizations and patient advocacy groups. She is a frequent lecturer and contributes to media events including those on medical ethics. She is known for her advocacy of individuals with neurodegenerative diseases.

Despite holding academic and hospital appointments, Dr. Cohen chooses to practice in the community, in keeping with her belief that dementia care and clinical research are best offered in the real world setting.

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Dr. Goldstein was born and raised in New York City. He graduated Colgate University, receiving a B.A. degree with a major in Biophysics. He obtained his MD degree from Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta. Upon graduation, he completed residencies in both Internal Medicine (College of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey/Robert Wood Johnson) and Neurology (Stanford University). He is board certified in both Internal Medicine and Neurology. After relocating to South Florida, he joined a busy clinical neurology practice which he helped grow to 6 Neurologists.

Dr. Goldstein began participating in clinical trials in the late 1990’s. To date, he has participated in over 80 clinical trials, being the Principal Investigator 70 times. Most of these trials have been conducted through JEM Research Institute, of which he is a founding member and the CEO. Under his guidance, JEM has grown into a substantial clinical research site currently employing 26 people, and conducting over 20 active trials at any one time, many of which deal with progressive cognitive decline.

As a clinical neurologist, Dr. Goldstein serves as an Affiliated Assistant Clinical Professor of Neurology at the University of Miami. As a researcher, he is a Certified Principal Investigator as well as a Fellow of the Academy of Physicians in Clinical Research.

Dr. Goldstein has served on the board of directors of the Medical Specialists of The Palm Beaches, the largest multispecialty medical group in Palm Beach County. He has also been a member of the executive committee as well as chairman of the credentials committee at JFK Hospital in Atlantis. He has been both the Chief of the Division of Neurology and the Director of the Comprehensive Stroke Center at JFK.

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Dr. Romero serves as Principal Investigator (PI) at Headlands Research Brownsville. He has a combined MD/PhD degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston. His NIAID-supported dissertation work in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology investigated the phenomenon of immunomodulation and its therapeutic potential for sepsis. He received the McLaughlin Fellowship, Blocker Scholar Award, and multiple NSRF awards for his work in immunology and vaccine-related research. He also completed the course in tropical and travel medicine at the UTMB Center for Tropical Diseases.

He graduated from the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Scripps Green Hospital in La Jolla, CA, and was awarded the Edmund L. Keeney, MD Award for Leadership in Medicine and Charles and Virginia Feld Award. Dr. Romero practiced medicine in one of the most underserved communities in the Rio Grande Valley. His experience treating emerging and neglected tropical infectious diseases along the border region includes Zika, chikungunya, dengue, murine typhus, and Hansen’s disease.

Dr. Romero joined the Valley Baptist Medical Center (VBMC) administration, overseeing the medical staff, clinical informatics, and research departments and was named Physician of the Year (2019). He collaborated with local, state, and federal resources in the COVID-19 pandemic response. He joined PanAmerican Clinical Research, LLC, as Medical Director for USA Operations. He served as the PI for multiple clinical trials, with a heavy focus on novel COVID-19 therapies and Phase I-III vaccine trials. He also worked closely with the public health sector and US-Mexico border entities to facilitate mass COVID-19 vaccination efforts in binational events.

Dr. Romero served on the steering committee of the Multi-Regional Clinical Trials Center of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard, where he helped expand inclusivity and diversity in clinical trials. He is a member of multiple medical organizations/ societies, including the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS), and has been appointed an American College of Physicians fellow.

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Dr. Sher completed his medical degree at the University of Utah School of Medicine (1983) and residency in pediatrics (1987) and fellowship in allergy and immunology at the University of California Los Angeles. He is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and American Board of Allergy and Immunology. He is a fellow with the American Academy of Pediatrics; American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology; and American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.

Since founding Peninsula Research Associates (PRA) in 1999, Dr. Sher has been the PI for over 200 clinical trials for conditions such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, ADHD, COPD, hypertension, otitis media, pneumonia, and sinusitis. Many of these trials have contributed to new medications and devices in the market. Dr. Sher continues to work as a physician at Palos Verdes Medical Group, a multispecialty practice and urgent care center encompassing pediatric care; ADHD; internal medicine; and adult and pediatric asthma, allergy, and immunology. Dr. Sher has been practicing in Rolling Hills Estates for the past 25 years.

Dr. Sher stays involved in the community in programs such as the Los Angeles County School Nurses Association and Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, where he is currently the Medical Chair for the South Bay region. He has also been appointed to serve on several national committees for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology and American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology including the Specific IgE Task Force, Immunotherapy and Allergy Diagnostics Committee, and Rhinitis and Sinusitis Committee.

Dr. Sher has published articles in numerous medical journals, including the Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal; Clinical Infectious Disease; Clinical Therapeutics; and Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. He authored “Diagnosing Allergic Diseases: Why Knowing the History is as Important as the Test,” published in Contemporary Pediatrics, and co-authored “Community-based Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Bacterial Rhinosinusitis with Gatifloxacin,” “Safety and Efficacy of Gatifloxacin Therapy for Children with Recurrent Acute Otitis Media (AOM) and/or AOM Treatment Failure,” and “Pearls and Pitfalls of Allergy Diagnostic Testing: Report from the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology/American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Specific IgE Test Task Force.”

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