Clinical Leader Spotlights Keenova Expert’s Work with Research-Ready Sites and Principal Investigators
Health & Patients Research & Innovation
“You have to give new sites a chance. You have to talk to all of the staff. If they don’t have the time or interest, it’s not going to work.”
That perspective guides Carrie Lewis, Executive Director of Clinical Program Optimization at Keenova, as she looks for opportunities to strengthen clinical research by bringing new sites and their physicians into the principal investigator (PI) pool.
A long-time advocate for a more inclusive approach to PI development, she spoke with Clinical Leader to share what she’s learned. The summary: Fresh perspectives can spark new ideas and, while resulting in performance that’s on par with veteran sites, aligning with Keenova’s commitment to advancing new and untapped approaches that support patient care.
Drawing on Lewis’ firsthand experience with Keenova clinical trials, the following four insights show how emerging sites and PIs can help advance the field, and how sponsors can build lasting momentum.
1. They Bring Fresh Energy and Curiosity
Lewis points to emerging sites and PIs as examples of those who enter clinical research out of genuine enthusiasm for the science rather than routine. That motivation shows up in the way they approach the work, asking thoughtful questions, making careful decisions, and showing a clear willingness to learn the right way.
2. They Perform as Well as Experienced Sites When Supported Properly
Her example also showed that performance hinges more on support than on years of clinical trial experience. With a dedicated site relationship manager and clear expectations, a research‑ready site can match the performance of long‑established sites, demonstrating that strong guidance can set emerging sites and investigators up for success.
3. They Help Expand the Investigator Pipeline the Industry Needs
Lewis has seen that bringing even one first‑time site into a study can strengthen the pipeline. In her example, supporting a single new site did not result in a “one and done” outcome, an oft-cited pattern of sites leaving research after their first trial because the work becomes too complex, inefficient, and unrewarding.
Helping new sites succeed contributes to long‑term site capacity, something the industry cannot sustain through experienced sites alone.
4. Momentum and Connection Keep Them Engaged
Her experience also shows that new sites often stay involved when they feel supported. When they know they can count on clear guidance, steady communication, and help navigating the process, they are eager to continue facilitating clinical research. Engagement grows when sponsors maintain momentum and connection.
Taken together, Lewis’ experience shows how giving even one new site the right support can create lasting momentum for sites, sponsors, and the patients who rely on clinical research.
