Adrenaline fuels her passion to develop the next generation of clinical research coordinators

19 MAY 2024

Geraldine relishes an active role in advancing clinical research and technology.

As a manager at the Clinical Trials and Research Unit (CTRU), which is part of the Research Office of Changi General Hospital (CGH), Geraldine leads a team of 25 staff that supports CGH research clinicians across over 100 research studies. It is no easy feat, as these studies range from examining drug efficacy or introducing new medical devices to complement patient care or observational studies that contribute to clinical research.

The CTRU centralises resources and efficiently supports research activities in CGH, in both investigator-led studies and sponsored trials. The team aids researchers in grant applications, ethics and regulatory submissions, study initiation to completion, as well as publication.

In her 12-year career as a clinical research coordinator (CRC), Geraldine finds fulfillment in coordinating and supporting the delivery of research outcomes from bench to bedside.

Geraldine Lim, a CRC of 12 years

Supporting early intervention and preventive health for patients with primary aldosteronism

Among all patients with hypertension in Singapore, including those with the more commonly known condition known as salt-sensitive hypertension, about 5% have primary aldosteronism hypertension – a lesser-known and curable form of hypertension. These patients are at a higher risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure compared to regular patients with hypertension. However, despite the higher prevalence, many patients with primary aldosteronism are not screened and treated.

Since 2016, Geraldine has been closely involved in a multi-centre, multi-study research project led by Clinical Assistant Professor Troy Puar, Head and Senior Consultant, Department of Endocrinology, CGH, which focuses on enhancing outcomes for patients with primary aldosteronism. With her clinical research expertise, she supports the Principal Investigators (PIs) and guides her research staff in the various clinical studies, some of which are nationally funded. She also works closely with the study teams to conceptualise the study framework, operational needs, draft essential documents, analyse the study’s challenges, and offer solutions.

Geraldine’s experience in organising and overseeing the patients and coordinators across the institutions is integral to the studies’ success. In February 2023, CGH successfully launched clinical blood tests to accurately identify and diagnose those with primary aldosteronism at the Shimadzu-CGH Clinomics Centre (SC3).

Geraldine (first row, fifth from left) and Dr Troy Puar (second row, right) with the adrenal hypertension study team

Keeping pace and building rapport

Although the fast-paced work may be intimidating for young CRCs, she shares that the adrenaline is invigorating and fuels her passion for research, almost akin to the thrill and excitement from horror and apocalyptic movies, which she enjoys. What captivates her is the way characters respond in dire situations.

While the context of her work as a CRC differs from the fictional scenarios depicted in horror movies, Geraldine draws parallel lessons from the films that teamwork is a significant part of navigating the complex landscape of clinical research. She also credits these movies for helping to reflect and cultivating her ability to remain calm and resilient.

Earlier in her career, Geraldine was a transplant coordinator for patients on waiting lists for new organs, which involved shift work around a 24-hour roster. However, after she became a mum, she looked for a role with regular hours and transitioned to become a CRC.

“Similar to being a transplant coordinator, as a CRC, you are involved with the patient from the initial recruitment to assess their suitability for the trial. In fact, you follow some patients for many years. Despite the long journey through the clinical research process, it offers the opportunity to develop new treatments and clinical practices which benefits patients,” she explained.

Through follow-ups with patients over the years, she is heartened by the trust established where they share their feedback with her.

Geraldine highlights that the strong rapport built with patients allows for a smoother management of trials as they may be more likely to adhere to study protocols and seek help when having queries. This allows Principal Investigators (PIs) to focus on the broader scientific and medical aspects of the trial.

This approach helps drive collaborative synergy between CRCs and PIs, allowing both roles to utilise their specific expertise more effectively – trial coordination and medical background – to advance research together.

“PIs, CRCs and patients form fundamental pillars in CGH’s research ecosystem as we drive new discoveries, improve outcomes and transform care delivery, for the better health of our community in Singapore and beyond,” Geraldine shared. 

Strengthening relationships and growing the CRC career path at SingHealth

Apart from taking care of trial participants, Geraldine also oversees the technical aspects of study operations and the development of CRCs. Recognised for her ability to connect with and empower others, Geraldine was selected for the administration pathway under SingHealth's CRC Career Development Plan (CDP) in 2015, a framework which facilitates career progression in the cluster.

Engaging with junior CRCs, she seeks to understand their competencies and guide them towards leadership roles.

“Whatever we promise to do, we need to deliver,” she said.

Through her years of experience, she emphasises to her team that transparency and resilience is key to building trust with patients and clinicians for successful study outcomes. She finds fulfillment in witnessing the growth of the individuals she mentored and patients she has encountered through the many studies.

Her love for nurturing others extends beyond the work environment; Geraldine fosters a collaborative spirit and camaraderie through team outings.

Geraldine and her team's favourite bonding activity is belting out tunes at karaoke joints. Their favourite song? Rachel Platten's 'Fight Song’, a song that reinvigorates them as they strive to support the clinical research studies that innovate healthcare for tomorrow.

Keen to learn about the stories of other CRCs? Read more below.