Welcome to another installment of our featured member profiles where we will continue to introduce you to more of our members—individuals who work to advance ethical research on a daily basis. Please read on to learn more about their professional experiences, how membership helps connect them to a larger community, and what goes on behind-the-scenes in their lives!
Today we’d like to introduce you to Patti Brodbeck, institutional review board (IRB) coordinator at Kettering Medical Center, Kettering Health Network in Kettering, OH.
When and why did you join the field?
I joined the field in February of 2011 after working for a year as a registrar in the emergency department of one of our health network’s hospitals. Although there was rarely a dull moment in the emergency department, I was interested in finding a position that would allow me to apply my psychology and research background every day. Fortunately for me, an IRB coordinator position was available within our network!
What is your favorite part of your job?
One of my favorite aspects of my job is providing human subjects protections education to our student researchers (e.g., residents, nurses, college students, etc.). My hope is that through collaboration and education, researchers will feel confident in their ability to conduct ethically-sound research. With my efforts in this regard, I know that I am providing a service not only to the researchers, but also to research participants.
What is the last movie you saw?
The last movie I saw was The Hunger Games. I had read the trilogy, which was fantastic, and was excited to see the story played out on film. I would recommend reading the book prior to seeing the movie!
Why did you join PRIM&R?
Upon beginning my work in the IRB office, my manager suggested joining PRIM&R and spoke excitedly about the organization, the benefits of membership, and the annual Advancing Ethical Research (AER) Conference. It was very clear to me that a membership with PRIM&R would be greatly beneficial for my professional growth.
What is your favorite member benefit?
I have to pick a favorite?! One would definitely be the networking opportunities available online and at conferences. These interactions are fantastic and I greatly appreciate the opportunity to build such positive professional connections. I was able to attend the AER Conference in 2011 and had the chance to meet several incredibly talented and knowledgeable young professionals. We attended different workshops/sessions, met up for lunch, exchanged information, and enjoyed some lively debates. (A quick shout-out – Hi Felicia, Kelly, Rebecca, Sandra, Susan, Alex, Joe, Mike, and Raj!)
What would you say to someone who is considering PRIM&R membership?
Do not hesitate! From the resources available online, such as the webinars and Ampersand, to the conferences and networking opportunities, PRIM&R is a fantastic organization providing many paths for professional growth.
What advice do you have for young professionals interested in pursuing a career in ethical research?
Speak up! One of the most wonderful aspects about this line of work is the respectful, mind-stimulating discussions it fosters with co-workers, researchers, and other professionals in the field. We come from all walks of life, but we share a passion for protecting research subjects – how awesome is that?! So, ask questions, and challenge yourself and others while discussing what can be done in order to improve research protections.
Thank you for being part of the membership community and sharing your story, Patti. We are glad to hear that you had such a great time at the 2011 AER Conference – we hope to see you this December in San Diego!
If you’d like to learn more about becoming a member, please visit our website today.
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