The RNT is led by a Senior Research Navigator (SRN), an experienced clinical research professional who provides direction and mentorship to the Research Navigator Team. The team specializes in the needs of Investigators and their teams conducting translational research at BU/BMC and who use the services of the General and Clinical Research Unit (GCRU).

Leadership and Administration

Myriam Castagne, MD – Senior Research Navigator (SRN)

The first point of contact who will respond to your queries about BU CTSI services, resources or consultations is the SRN. The SRN Develops collaborative relationships with the BU/BMC clinical research community and advocates for researchers and study coordinators, identifies resources for the timely & successful completion of research projects, refers investigators to appropriate clinical research services/cores, promotes institutional polices and best practices. The SRN identifies, develops, and maintains relationships with key contacts with BU/BMC offices; CTSI Leadership; Program Directors and Program Staff.  In addition, SRN may provide short term assistance for study start up to include completion of sponsor regulatory documents, IRB applications, proving oversight of study binders and preparation of study documentation. Provide training to GCRU Clinical Practice Assistants and Study Teams.

Ridiane Denis, BS, RN, MD – Director of Clinical Research and Operations, General Clinical Research Unit (GCRU)

Works collaboratively with the RNT and offers guidance regarding services provided by the GCRU and the CTSI Research Job Connection (RJC). In her role as the Director of Clinical Research and Operations, Ridiane will work closely with the SRN to review requests received from Investigators and study teams interested in using the GCRU. She, along with the SRN, will determine when a request needs to be referred to regulatory or compliance office; or another CTSI program, such as Community Engagement, Recruitment or Special Populations. She will make suggestions for matching research staff to study teams through the RJC and provide guidance during the hiring process. The SRN will help to assess the specific needs and the viability of the “match” and make suggestions for training and required certifications. Brief Bio For Ridiane Denis.

Daniel Mompoint, MA – Research Navigator (RN)

Provides clinical research support for BU’s Department of Medicine (DOM) and the CTSI. Assists in connecting with experts and understanding processes and best practices for conducting research at BMC/BU. Provides operational support to these studies including EPIC screening and data entry. Assists in the development of SOP’s, INSPIR submissions and all other aspects of clinical studies. The RN is deployed to work with clinical studies based on request and the needs of the BU/BMC research community.

Abigail Gingrande MPH, CPH – Research Navigator (RN)

Provides clinical research support for BU’s Department of Medicine (DOM) and the CTSI. Assists in connecting with experts, understanding processes and best practices for conducting research at BMC/BU, and providing operational support to these studies to include EPIC screening and data entry. Also assists in the development of SOP’s, INSPIR submissions and all other aspects of clinical studies. The RN is deployed to work with clinical studies based on request and the needs of the BU/BMC research community.

Lea Bele – Research Navigator Assistant (RNA)

The RNA reviews requests received through CTSI Services from BU/BMC for Regulatory, Study Design & Feasibility, and Statistical consults, and inquiries about Pilot awards and the availability of other funding. Working closely with and guided by the Sr. Research Navigator to prioritize requests, the RNA will appropriately channel and monitor requests to ensure timely responses. Serves as the Velos lesion for billing purposes.

Clinical Practice Assistants

Provide support for the SRN and RNs as needed and based on specific study needs. Work with and assists the GCRU Registered Nurses and Nurse Manager on a per-diem basis with protocol specific clinical trials. Ensure a compliant, safe and welcoming environment for the GCRU study participants, Principal Investigators and Study Coordinators. Maintain medical equipment and logs to ensure that safety standards are followed. Have responsibility for data entry for trials managed by the GCRU and the Navigator Team.