From the perspective of a researcher: Linking clinical medicine to scientific discovery

Carla Greenbaum, M.D.’s interest in science began when she was a child. Growing up during the space race and moon landing fueled her passion for science. This interest has shaped her career. She is now a senior investigator at Benaroya Research Institute, where she has studied the Natural History of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) since 2000. Her research focuses on finding the causes of autoimmunity and developing treatment targets. She finds this “incredibly inspiring and exciting–like landing the moon!”

Her expertise is invaluable for projects such as Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet. This international network of clinical trials in T1D is supported by JDRF (the leading global organization that funds type 1 diabetes research) and the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

We asked Dr. Greenbaum to share her perspective as a researcher. She spoke about the thrill of participating in clinical trials, how strong the T1D Community is, and what research she finds the most exciting. Please continue reading to learn more about her.

What is your favorite thing about working in clinical trials?

It is rewarding to be a part of the scientific discovery chain in clinical medicine. Clinical trials are the product of brilliant scientists who have analyzed the clues on how to prevent disease and examined the mechanisms that cause it. These ideas are passed on to translational scientists who look for additional information. Finally, this work is handed over to me and other clinical trial researchers to determine if the ideas are true and can make a real difference in people’s lives.

What advice would you give to people with T1D who are interested in learning more about clinical trials?

To move research forward, we need participants in clinical trials who can help researchers answer important issues. The faster trials are completed, the quicker we can get answers.

JDRF launched a new tool with TrialReach that matches participants to clinical trials. What impact could this tool have on T1D research, and how can it be used?

In the fight against T1D, any tool that allows participants to connect with research opportunities easily and clearly is essential.

What is it about T1D that excites you the most today?

The number of clinical trials that are being conducted on humans at every stage of T1D is what excites me the most about T1D today. It is the result of years of basic research and efforts from people across many disciplines. It takes an army to stop T1D.

Clinical trials are a great way to advance research. Click the button to find out more about clinical trials in your area.

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