Women in Science
Meet Phirum Nguyen, BS
Phirum Nguyen is a highly experienced clinical research professional with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. In 2017, she joined the ACTRI Center for Clinical Research Team as a Clinical Research Program Manager and has since been responsible for overseeing the team's activities and ensuring that all research is conducted in accordance with study protocols, as well as federal, state, institutional, and regulatory guidelines.
Did you have a role model that influenced your decision to work in science?
Pursuing a career in science was heavily influenced by my upbringing in a family with a medical background, and my fascination with the potential of clinical trials to enhance patient care was centered through a volunteer opportunity at a clinical research center.
How and why did you choose your field of study?
My experience volunteering with underserved communities has been a driving force in my decision to pursue a career as a clinical research coordinator, as I am passionate about bridging the gap between medical care and those in need.
Which topic are you working on at the moment? Why did you choose this topic and how do you think you’re making a difference?
Currently, I am assisting researchers in multiple national studies on chronic pain management. This work has made me realize the critical need for more comprehensive and rigorous methods to improve pain treatments.
What are your biggest achievements?
It is truly inspiring to witness the significant improvement in patients' health as a result of clinical trials. Witnessing firsthand the impact that clinical trials can have on patients' lives serves as a powerful reminder for me, reinforcing my commitment to this field.
What are the biggest challenges/obstacles you have had to overcome?
There continues to be a lack of trust in clinical research and medical science among underserved communities. It is important to establish trust, improve communication, increase their engagement in research, and address their unique healthcare needs to tackle this issue.
How do you stay encouraged during challenges?
When facing challenges, I stay motivated by envisioning how research could pave the way to new developments in treatments, therapies, and medications that have the potential to improve patients’ health and quality of life.
During your career, have you been specifically mentored or supported by someone?
In the early stage of my career, I had the privilege of being mentored by an excellent nurse practitioner, Samrang Schimelpfenig, NP/PA, who not only provided guidance but also instilled in me a passion for pursuing clinical trial work.
What is the funniest or most memorable thing that has happened to you while working in science?
One of the most memorable moments of my career in science was when a clinical trial I worked on was successful in helping patients and received FDA approval. This experience highlighted for me the importance of clinical trials and their ability to enhance people's lives through scientific progress.
What does a healthy work/life balance look like for you?
Achieving a healthy work/life balance means having sufficient time to focus on both personal and professional aspects of life.
If you had the option to give advice to a younger version of yourself, what would that be?
If I had the chance to advise my younger self, I would strongly encourage myself to take more risks and not let the fear of failure hold me back. During my younger days, I often hesitated to try new things, and this reluctance to take risks prevented me from seizing opportunities that could have helped me grow both personally and professionally.
In your opinion, which changes, if any, are needed in the scientific system to be more appealing to women in science and possible future women scientists?
Women in science still face significant challenges when it comes to accessing resources and opportunities for advancement. One effective way to tackle this problem is by providing more mentorship and networking opportunities at an early age. Additionally, it is crucial to raise awareness and advocate for gender equality in science, in order to create a more inclusive and equitable scientific community.
What has been the most unexpected part about your career in science/medicine?
Despite significant advancements in medical research, there are still many undiscovered treatments awaiting to be uncovered. However, it is inspiring to see the positive impact that can be achieved through collaborative effort toward a common goal.
If you have any questions or want to learn more about her work, feel free to contact Phirum Nguyen at: psnguyen@health.ucsd.edu