In 2002, Charlottesville Medical Research began a relationship with an investigator for their diabetes, hypertension, and osteoarthritis studies. Fourteen years and over 150 trials later, Dr. James Clark became the Charlottesville Medical Research Center LLC Owner and Medical Director. Dr. Clark is the focus this month as our Behind the Research blog series continues. His award-winning passion for research and serving his community are the driving force at the heart of our entire team.
Question: Tell us a little bit about your role. What motivates you to participate in clinical research?
Dr. Clark: As the Medical Director of Charlottesville Medical Research, I am excited to be part of clinical research studies. Research is the discovery of new options for the prevention and treatment of medical conditions. To offer this opportunity to people in the community is both rewarding and motivating, knowing we are providing cutting-edge treatments while providing medical oversight to keep everyone safe and healthy as they go through clinical trials.
Question: What’s one work-related thing you want to accomplish in the next year?
Dr. Clark: The pandemic has affected this world in so many ways. I would like our research center to participate in a trial related to the prevention of Covid-19. We are currently looking at a few different trials and hope to be part of the solution to this devastating infection.
Question: Do you have a favorite holiday? Why or why not?
Dr. Clark: Christmas is my favorite time of the year. It reminds me of my wonderful blessings, especially, and importantly, my family.
Question: What’s the career highlight you’re most proud of?
Dr. Clark: Receiving the Commander’s Award for Public Service, which is the fourth-highest honor the United States Department of the Army can bestow upon a civilian. For my service as a civilian, this was issued to me by Brigadier General Charles N Pede for providing medical care to the military for 15 years. Though I never served, it was my honor to care for the servicemen and servicewomen who dedicate their lives to protecting this country.
Question: If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Dr. Clark: Raspberries. Beyond my own addiction to this little red fruit, they provide a high level of antioxidants for heart health and cancer prevention, Vitamin C and E for brain power, anthocyanins for inflammation suppression, and zeaxanthins, which block harmful blue light rays. Benefits or not, I cannot stop eating them.
Question: What is the thing you like most about your job?
Dr. Clark: I am blessed to be working with a fantastic group of people at Charlottesville Medical Research. Each are independent thinking, professional, respectful, hardworking, and value teamwork. Most importantly, they care so much for every subject who elects to enter one of our many clinical trials. I provide the oversight however, our staff truly does the great work required to conduct clinical trials.
To learn more about our enrolling studies here at Charlottesville Medical Research, call (434) 817-2442, or visit our website.
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