Clinical Research Institute

Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute

The Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI) is a multi-disciplinary entity that facilitates research throughout Methodist Health System, its hospitals, and its affiliates. The MHSCRI was established to facilitate a culture of clinical innovation that benefits our patients and their families. The MHSCRI strives to ensure that researchers conduct their work in such a way that it meets or exceeds international, federal, and state regulations.

Our Mission

The mission of the MHSCRI is to provide professional, ethical, and relevant clinical research support to clinical investigators and research staff at Methodist Health System.

MHSCRI areas of expertise include:

• Cardiology
• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Endoscopy
• Endovsacular
• Endocrinology
• Family Practice
• Gastroenterology
• Hematology
• Hepatology
• Hepatopancreaticobiliary
• Infectious Disease
• Internal Medicine
• Interventional Radiology
• Neurology
• Nursing
• Obstetrics
• Oncology
• Orthopedics
• Pain Management
• Pathology
• Pharmacology
• Surgical Transplantation
• Trauma
• Vascular Surgery
• Wound Care

Visit clinicaltrials.gov for a database of clinical trials.

To learn more about our Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute, call (214) 947-1280.

Leadership

Crystee Cooper, DHEd, MPH, CLSSBB, CRA®, Vice President of Research & Simulation

Dr. Crystee Cooper is the Vice President of the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI) and the Center for Simulation and Wellness (C-SAW). As Vice President, Dr. Cooper leads a team of investigators, research administrative and clinical support staff, fellows, and volunteers in the conduct of high-quality, safe, and compliant clinical trials in collaboration with industry, academia, and government sponsors. Prior to joining Methodist Health System, Dr. Cooper served in several leadership roles with high-profile organizations and held an adjunct faculty appointment with the University of North Texas Health Science Center, School of Public Health in the Department of Health Behaviors and Health Systems.

Dr. Cooper is responsible for general oversight of the institute, including resourcing, business development, and client services. She establishes and maintains collaborative relationships with industry sponsors, academia, and other research and education organizations in an effort to support the provision, collection, and dissemination of high-quality services, data, and information. Under Dr. Cooper's leadership, and in collaboration with an esteemed group of medical providers and study teams, the MHSCRI continuously strives to improve communities one life at a time by doing its part to help increase access to new treatments, bridge research-practice gaps, and support nationally recognized programs across Methodist Health System and its affiliates.

Dr. Cooper holds a Doctorate of Health Education and Master of Public Health from A.T. Still University, formerly Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCOM), located in Kirksville, Missouri. She is a former National Institutes of Health (NIH) scholar at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine where she helped to design the Graphics Assisted Learning Environment (GALE) for computer-assisted instruction and clinical observation of rheumatic diseases. She has more than 20 years’ experience in the areas of research, healthcare administration, quality-assurance, compliance, grants administration, and public health. Dr. Cooper is certified in several disciplines, including health education, research administration, and Lean Six Sigma.

Colette Ngo Ndjom, MS, Director of the Clinical Research Institute

Colette is a research and regulatory professional with several years of experience in the areas of compliance and regulatory affairs. Prior to joining the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), Colette served as a research manager with an interest in immunotherapies. She holds a M.S, in Biotechnology with a concentration in enterprise and entrepreneurship / regulatory affairs from Johns Hopkins University and a B.S. in Biology from Oklahoma Baptist University.

At the MHSCRI, Colette has direct experience in regulatory oversight for all clinical trials issues in drug products and medical devices. Colette is involved with study startup and aptly interacts with stakeholders and sponsors to assist researchers in maintaining regulatory compliance during their studies. In 2019, she completed the Emerging Leadership Program offered at Methodist Health System, which identifies and recruits aspiring leaders and prepares them for possible leadership roles at Methodist Health System.

Karen Castro, BS, CCRC, Clinical Trials Manager

Karen Castro obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Science (Biology) from the University of Texas at Dallas. She has over six years of experience in the clinical research industry. Prior to joining the Methodist Health System (MHS) Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), she performed various roles in clinical research at a contract research organization and a local hospital. Karen’s professional experience includes navigating phase I to IV trials for pharmaceutical companies as well as interventional and natural history investigator-initiated studies for various medical specialties. Karen joined the MHSCRI in 2022 as the clinical research trials manager. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day clinical research operations of sponsored trials for multiple specialties within MHS. Karen has a passion for innovation through clinical research. She leads her team in providing quality clinical research services to advance standard of care treatment and expand access to medical care for our patients at MHS.

Heather Grossman Verner, MS, ACRP-CP, Clinical Trials Manager (Trauma Research)

Heather is a scientist with over 10 years’ experience in multidisciplinary translational research. She earned a master of science in biological sciences focusing on pathogenesis modeling systems of emerging infectious disease. Heather has a passion for collaborative science and effective science communication. Her areas of expertise include in vivo and in vitro modeling as well as battlefield trauma standard of care. Heather served as a third-party manuscript editor, promoting the publication of scientific findings from non-native English speaking scientists.

At Methodist Health System, Heather manages an interdisciplinary research program fostering collaboration between system physicians and the trauma research team. Her program research aims currently target geriatric trauma (G60), mass casualty preparedness, penetrating trauma and antibiotic stewardship. Heather works to facilitate multi-center research trial in alignment with institutional investigator interests, provides research mentorship to surgical residents, and manages a Trauma Research Fellowship for aspiring surgeons. With her diverse background, she provides a unique lens to collaborate, drive, and report on projects aimed at developing and improving the standards of trauma care.

Hyndavi Krishna Javvaji, BDS, MS, REDCap (Trauma) Data Manager

Hyndavi Krishna Javvaji is a foreign-trained dentist with a passion for healthcare technology and data-driven research. After earning her Bachelor of Dental Surgery, she pursued a Master’s in Health Informatics at Rutgers University, where she received the Academic Excellence Award. Her academic background provided her with expertise in clinical trial data management, electronic data capture systems, and database management.

As a REDCap (Trauma) Data Manager, Hyndavi specializes in clinical data management and research informatics. She has extensive experience in designing and managing REDCap projects, developing Case Report Forms, conducting User Acceptance Testing, and ensuring data integrity and regulatory compliance in clinical research. Her ability to streamline workflows and implement best practices has contributed to the success of multiple research studies.

With a strong foundation in data validation, database management, and reporting, Hyndavi excels in database design, data cleaning, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of research data. She leverages various technologies and data management strategies to optimize research processes. Her unique blend of clinical and technical expertise allows her to bridge the gap between healthcare research and technology, ensuring efficient data management and high-quality research outcomes.

Karshena Valsin, MBA, Regulatory Compliance Manager

Karshena Valsin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Angelo State University and a Master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University. With over 20 years of experience in academic and research compliance and the clinical research industry, Karshena has significantly contributed to the field.

Before joining the Methodist Health System (MHS) Clinical Research Institute, she managed academic and clinical research at local hospitals. Her professional experience includes leading the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and staff to support clinical research as well as managing and monitoring all compliance activities and requirements of delegated subcontractors to confirm adherence to state and federal regulatory requirements. Karshena has also independently overseen and conducted audits of multi-delegated functions across all functional areas of auditing as a delegation oversight manager and auditor.

In her role as the Manager of Research Regulatory Compliance at MHS, she will oversee, manage, and provide regulatory guidance regarding clinical research activities. She will also collaborate with the IRBs, staff, sponsors, and investigators to ensure regulatory compliance related to the development, implementation, and management of IRB-approved clinical research across MHS and its affiliates.

Administrative Staff

Lily Castillo, AS, Executive Assistance for Dr. Crystee Cooper

Lily brings three years of executive administrative experience with a focus on operational support across diverse industries, including commercial real estate, legal services, corporate hospitality, and engineering. At Trinity Groves Corporate Food Group, she worked alongside the former Director of Operations, Marcopolo Castillo, who helped her develop strong operational management and leadership skills. Lily’s role at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum provided valuable customer service experience in a unique and meaningful setting. Most recently, she worked at an engineering firm widely recognized for its multi-disciplinary business lines, including structural, transportation, water and aviation services. This experience further broadened her skill set in operations and project support in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Lily holds an Associates of Science degree, and will begin her Bachelor of Science in Nursing studies at Texas Women’s University this summer, with hopes of becoming a highly-skilled nurse. Working at the Clinical Research Institute has been an invaluable opportunity, offering hands-on experience in clinical research operations and allowing me to build meaningful connections with leaders in this field. Lily is passionate about learning and serving others in a faith-driven way, with a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. She is honored to be part of Dr. Cooper’s team and to work alongside the Clinical Research Institute staff.

Mingyang Cui, MSc, Data Science and Biostatistician Manager

Mingyang graduated from University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in statistics before earning a Master of Science degree in statistics from George Washington University. Mingyang worked on many statistical analysis projects in school and attended data science competitions after graduation. An internship in the Bank of China helped him develop skills in coding, data cleaning, and data analysis. As the Data Science and Biostatistician Manager at Methodist Health System’s Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), Mingyang has the opportunity to contribute his statistical analysis skills to several facets of clinical research, including sample size calculations, statistical consulting, data cleaning, and data analysis. He also helps review and edit the statistical methods sections in investigator-initiated trial protocols, manuscripts, and conference abstracts. He has a strong passion to learn new methodologies that will help him provide excellent statistical support at the MHSCRI.

Vinh Dang, BSA, Staff Accountant
Vinh Dang is an accounting professional with over 10 years of experience. With a strong background in financial reporting, revenue management, and process improvement, he ensures accurate invoicing, reconciliations, and compliance to support necessary operations. Vinh thrives on problem solving and streamlining financial workflows, helping teams stay focused and creating more happiness. He values collaboration and believes food and anime unites all.

Traqueva Langrum, BAAS, Senior Staff Accountant

Traqueva is an accounting professional with fifteen years of accounting experience. She earned a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science degree from the University of North Texas. In her previous position, Traqueva was responsible for multiple aspects of the accounting cycle, including month-end close and reconciliation while leading a team of various levels of accounting professionals. At the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), Traqueva helps perform several accounting activities, including assisting with the development, execution, and monitoring of program budgets, accounts receivables activities for clinical trials, grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements.

Kavya Mankulangara, PharmD, Regulatory Specialist

Kavya is a foreign pharmacy graduate with a PharmD degree and has been in the healthcare field for six years. She has published several research papers and completed a research study on the clinical pharmacist-initiated interventions in the geriatric population. She completed a clinical research program through Arizona’s State Approving Agency to receive Veteran’s Affairs education benefits. She also completed a course on data management in clinical research through Vanderbilt University. Kavya supports and contributes to the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute by helping deliver high-quality data and ensures patient safety through regulatory compliant and operationally efficient clinical trials. She assists in the development of clinical trial documents, institutional review board submissions, conducting monitoring visits, and obtaining and tracking relevant regulatory documents for clinical trial submission and management.

Anne Murray, PhD, MWC®, Lead Medical Writer

Dr. Anne Murray holds a PhD in Cell Biology from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and has over nine years of scientific writing experience in basic science research in the areas of cell and molecular biology, endocrinology, genetics, retina biology, and immunology. She is an active member of the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA). Through AMWA, she earned a Composition and Publication Certificate, attends education sessions to expand her medical writing knowledge, co-leads educational sessions at local and international medical writing conferences, and earned a Medical Writer Certified (MWC®) credential.

At the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), Dr. Murray performs comprehensive literature searches as well as writes, edits, and reviews manuscripts, abstracts, posters, and study material for Methodist Health System researchers. She ensures quality control review of all final documents, verifying that all documents comply with regulatory, journal, and other guidelines. Dr. Murray assists Methodist Health System researchers in developing comprehensive document strategies and detailed timelines for research dissemination. She also developed curriculum for an annual manuscript development seminar for residents, clinicians, and staff in several service lines at Methodist Health System. Dr. Murray also creates and disseminates informative documents to Methodist Health System researchers and employees associated with MHSCRI. In 2021, she completed the Emerging Leadership Program offered at Methodist Health System, which identifies and recruits aspiring leaders and prepares them for possible leadership roles at Methodist Health System.

Pritima Pathak, MS, Regulatory Specialist

Pritima Pathak is a graduate from University of Texas at Arlington where she received her Master’s Degree in Biology with an emphasis on Bioinformatics. Pritima has over five years of experience in the healthcare field where she has performed various roles. In her role as a Regulatory Specialist at the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute, Pritima is responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, preparing and submitting regulatory documents and staying updated on evolving regulatory requirements to support the successful conduct of clinical trials.

Jeffrey Wilson, BS, Regulatory Specialist

Jeffrey Wilson has a bachelor's degree in Exercise Sports Science from Texas State University. He has over 15 years of dynamic experience in human subject research. Before joining the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), Jeffrey gained valuable regulatory experience as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Baylor Scott & White, a Clinical Research Associate at DJO Surgical, a Contract Clinical Research Manager with the United States Army Public Health Command, and a Regulatory Monitoring Analyst in the Human Research Protection Program Office at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. As a Regulatory Specialist at the MHSCRI, Jeffrey helps ensure ethical compliance in research studies and contributes to the advancement of research standards.

Clinical Staff

Rene Chidozie, BSN, RN, Trauma Research Coordinator

Rene Chidozie obtained their bachelor of science in psychology at Texas A&M University as well as a bachelor of science in nursing at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. After working in different aspects of critical care nursing for five years, clinical research drew their attention. As a Trauma Research Coordinator, Rene can contribute to healthcare in a new and meaningful way. Their responsibilities include patient screening and collecting/analyzing data. In this new role, they hope to drive good clinical practice while proving their dedication to healthcare. Also, Rene will contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge through research.

Melissa Galicia, BS, MCTM, Clinical Research Coordinator

Melissa Galicia is an accomplished professional with a multidisciplinary background, combining expertise in clinical research management, project leadership, and biomedical sciences. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. Kicking off her career journey, she embarked as a junior researcher in preclinical NIH-funded trials, where her focus primarily revolved around pioneering optogenetic studies. Melissa was awarded “Best Young Researcher Award”, which acknowledged her contributions and innovation in her field. Her academic and professional excellence paved the way for further specialization, and she earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Translation Management from the University of St. Thomas, excelling in coursework that bridged the gap between clinical research and its real-world application. In her current role at Methodist Health Center Clinical Research Institute, Melissa is grateful for the invaluable opportunity it provides. She recognizes it as a pivotal stepping stone that fosters professional growth, allowing her to contribute meaningfully while furthering her expertise in the dynamic field of clinical research.

Sophie He, BS, BSN, RN, Nurse Research Coordinator

Sophie He, an accomplished Registered Nurse (RN), holds a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Baylor University and a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Texas Woman's University. During her tenure as a Research Assistant at the University of North Texas, she delved into the intricacies of gut microbiota genetics, contributing valuable insights to the field. Building on this foundation, Sophie transitioned to a role as a Charge Nurse after two years on a medical-surgical floor, demonstrating a unique blend of clinical expertise and leadership. In addition to her academic and clinical achievements, Sophie holds a chemotherapy certification, underscoring her proficiency in administering and managing chemotherapy treatments. Committed to professional development, she served as a preceptor, guiding and mentoring emerging healthcare professionals. In her current role at the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute, Sophie excels in the management of patient cases within sponsored clinical trials, specializing in infusion therapy. Her adept handling of complex research protocols and infusion-related aspects showcases her expertise in navigating the intricacies of clinical trials. Sophie's multifaceted experience positions her as a valuable contributor to the advancement of medical knowledge in this dynamic and challenging field.

Gabriella Kalantar, PhD, Clinical Research Scientist (Trauma)

Dr. Gabriella Kalantar received a Bachelor’s of Science and Masters of Science in Biology at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), where she primarily studied cellular, molecular, and microbial biology. Dr. Kalantar earned her PhD from the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics at the University of Kentucky in immunology. Due to the multidisciplinary scope of her dissertation project, she gained expertise in immunology, biochemistry, and nutritional sciences, thus providing her with a well-rounded scientific background. She published her research findings (under GH Pugh or GH Kalantar) in two first-author papers (and a third first-author paper pending submission). Dr. Kalantar also communicated her research findings at several local, national, and international conferences. As a training grant recipient of the Clinical and Translational Sciences TL1 program, she became further motivated to pursue a career in clinical research. After a brief postdoctoral position at UT Southwestern Medical Center where she studied infectious disease, she pivoted toward a career that was more closely aligned with her long-term career goals in clinical research.

Dr. Kalantar brings nine years of translational biomedical research experience and five years of interdisciplinary training in immunology, microbiology, and biochemistry, to her current role as a Clinical Research Scientist at Methodist Dallas Medical Center. Her combined background in immunology and microbiology will be invaluable to the Trauma research team as wound healing, infection prevention, and inflammation are critical mechanisms involved in traumatic injury. In addition, the transferrable skills she gathered during her PhD training, including project management, study design, grant writing, manuscript preparation, and statistical analysis, will bring value to her current role. These skills will allow Dr. Kalantar to effectively conceive, develop, and direct independent and collaborative research projects; lead development, coordination, and writing/analysis of Trauma research projects; and pursuing extramural funding opportunities.

Jennifer Kirchner, BS, Clinical Research Coordinator

With a Bachelor’s degree in biology from The Ohio State University, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for advancing healthcare through clinical research. Prior to joining Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), she worked in various hospital settings as a student assistant at the information and surgical desks, a patient care technician, and a research assistant. During her time as a patient care technician, Jennifer was exposed to the intricacies of clinical research. It was during that time that her interest shifted towards making a lasting impact on patients’ well-being and improving their (and future patients) healthcare. Jennifer is newer to MHSCRI as a clinical research coordinator, but her dedication to providing the best care for patient, results in a deep commitment to advancing healthcare through meaningful and impactful clinical research initiatives.

Crystal Nino, BS, Clinical Research Coordinator
Crystal is a dedicated healthcare professional with a background in both patient care and public health. With two years of experience as a medical assistant, she developed a solid foundation in clinical procedures and patient care while also gaining valuable insight into the operational dynamics of healthcare delivery. After obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Texas at Arlington, she transitioned into the role of a clinical research coordinator. In this capacity, Crystal leverages her clinical background and public health expertise to effectively manage and oversee research studies. She is committed to advancing clinical research and improving patient outcomes through meticulous adherence to protocols and data integrity, serving as a vital link between clinical practice and medical research.

Uyen Pham, BSN, Nurse Research Coordinator

Uyen Pham, a dedicated professional, earned her Associates of Nursing (ADN) from Tarrant County Community College. With a solid foundation as a staff nurse, Uyen progressed to a preceptor role, imparting knowledge and expertise. Elevating her career, Uyen assumed responsibilities as a charge nurse, displaying leadership and organization skills. Concurrently, she pursued her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Texas at Arlington, show casing her commitment to continuous growth. Uyen actively contributed to the healthcare community through involvement in the Unit Practice Counsel (UPC) and participation in the Wound Care Committee.

At the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute, Uyen is a nurse research coordinator who orchestrates the seamless execution of clinical studies with precision and dedication. Armed with extensive clinical expertise and a passion for research, she plays a pivotal role in protocol management, patient recruitment, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Balancing meticulous data collection and patient care, Uyen collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, sponsors and regulatory bodies to foster a dynamic research environment. Uyen is committed to advancing medical knowledge through the facilitation and coordination of impactful clinical research initiatives.

Miguel Talamo, BS, Clinical Research Coordinator

Miguel graduated from The University of Texas at Dallas with a Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. Prior to joining the Methodist Health System (MHS) Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), he performed work for various academic research institutions in topics ranging from cognitive and behavioral sciences to metabolism and genetics.

At the MHSCRI, Miguel is a Clinical Research Coordinator, where he ensures protocol compliance and good clinical practice in all phases of the research process. By collecting, completing, and reporting clinical data and ensuring adherence to regulations from the FDA, IRB, and other regulatory agencies, Miguel provides quality and diligence to MHSCRI’s scientific and clinical efforts.

Cynthia Villalta, DO, Trauma Research Coordinator

Dr. Cynthia Villalta graduated from the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM) in 2022. Before joining the Methodist Health System Clinical Research Institute (MHSCRI), Dr. Villalta served as Vice President of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons Medical Student Section at AZCOM. Her past research includes investigating etiology of spontaneous coronary artery dissection and its impact on pregnant women and maternal death.

At the MHSCI, Dr. Villalta is the clinical research coordinator for the department of Trauma and Acute Care surgery. Her responsibilities include patient screening and consenting for study eligibility, manuscript writing and editing, literature reviews, data collection, and analysis of large databases such as the National Trauma Databank and Trauma Quality Improvement Project. With professional interests in surgical innovation and community outreach, Dr. Villalta plans to make an impact in the medical field by combining her experience in research with a future career in surgery.