In our “Meet the Team” series, we highlight the talented individuals who drive Phastar’s success. Each team member brings unique skills, experience, and passion to their role, working together to deliver high-quality biometrics and data science solutions in clinical research. Below, we share their career journey, insights, and the impact they make every day.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to join Phastar?
I have been interested in medical sciences for as long as I can remember and started working in cancer research in 2005. Prior to Phastar, I worked at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota (US) for about a decade publishing cancer epidemiology and genetics papers. I have a BA in Mathematics from Carleton College (Northfield MN), and an MSc in Statistics from Iowa State University (Ames IA). I have also worked with CMS (Medicare) and honed my data science skills with Cigna (Insurance company). I was interested in joining Phastar to continue working in and publishing in cancer research, learning about new treatment types, and being an active part of the journey to improving patient survival.
What is your role at Phastar, and what do you enjoy most about your day-to-day responsibilities?
I started as a Principal Data Scientist at Phastar in 2021. I am currently working as an Associate Director of Data Science. I have the flexibility to work remotely, and I currently live in Colorado. In my role, I work with multiple teams and people from all over the world. I am also actively and constantly learning about cutting edge medical research, statistical methodologies, and treatments in different areas (not just limited to cancer research) from many different people. The technology is constantly evolving and very fast growing so there is always more to learn.
What has been your favorite moment or achievement at Phastar so far?
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be able to be an active member of the team (both Phastar and FSP role for AstraZeneca)! In the past couple years, I have served on many different committees as well as being able to work remotely as a line manager for fellow data scientists around the world. Last year (2024), I presented a poster at the Royal Statistical Society conference in Brighton, England. I got meet many of my colleagues across the pond for both Phastar and my client (AstraZeneca) teams. 
What opportunities for growth or professional development have you had since joining the team?
I have also had the opportunity to attend a few conferences and meetings around the US and plenty of opportunities to participate, contribute to, and view webinars and other training sessions. The company is always looking for opportunities to reinvest in our employees, which is the most valuable asset and to stay on top of the trends and research.
What do you value most about working at Phastar?
There have been ample opportunities for growth at Phastar. As a specialist CRO that works with many clients, there is less of a glass ceiling. Additionally, as a smaller company, I have also contributed to internal and company meetings, business development, interviews, line management, recruitment efforts, and growing the business with new clients and opportunities. I feel like there is a lot of visibility within and outside of the company, and our marketing teams are active on various online platforms such as LinkedIn, reaching out to people and staying relevant.
Want to grow your career like Alice?
