Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
For nearly a decade, Francine Lopez has helped clinical research move from idea to impact. From her early days at a local research site to her current role in client services at Advarra, she has seen firsthand how every submission and study can change lives.
In this conversation, she shares what drives her work, the lessons she’s carried from the field, and how Advarra’s collaborative culture continues to inspire her every day.
What first drew you to clinical research and eventually to Advarra?
I didn’t plan to work in research. It found me. My first job was at a clinical research site focused on central nervous system (CNS) studies like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. I started as a patient care tech and quickly realized how transformative research could be. I remember one participant whose life completely changed after joining a schizophrenia trial. Seeing him return to work, reconnect with his family, and regain stability: It was powerful. That experience showed me the human side of research. It’s not just data and protocols. It’s people whose lives depend on these studies. That’s where my passion for this field began and why I eventually transitioned to the IRB space.
How has your research-site background shaped your work at Advarra?
Having been on the site side gives me a deep appreciation for what’s at stake. I know there’s a patient, a spouse, and maybe kids waiting on the other side of every document we process. That perspective drives how I lead my team. We prioritize quality and speed —without ever compromising quality—because timing can literally be life changing. When clients call with urgent submissions, we don’t just see paperwork. We see the potential for someone’s treatment to begin. My years at the site taught me empathy, urgency, and respect for the process. And I carry that into how I serve my clients at Advarra every day.
Advarra’s culture is often described as collaborative and mission driven. What does that look like in your experience?
It’s true. Our culture is really special. Even as Advarra has grown, there’s a shared sense of purpose that connects us. Early on, I thought departments like strategic partnerships were just sales teams, but I’ve learned how closely we all work toward the same goal: helping clients move studies forward efficiently. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with teams across the company on initiatives that streamline how research gets done. Cross-team effort keeps us from working in silos and reminds us that every improvement ultimately benefits everyone who depends on our work.
How do you and your team maintain personal connections with clients in a remote world?
We get creative! While we can’t visit every client in person, we make the most of virtual touchpoints: office hours, live Q&A sessions, and regular check-ins. When we do get to meet face to face, it’s a game changer. Sitting down together builds trust and helps us understand where we can streamline processes or solve issues faster. Those meetings also humanize the work. We’re not just names on a screen but partners with a shared mission. And when the next rush request comes in, we know exactly who’s on the other side and why it matters.
Want to learn more? Check out this overview of Advarra’s review services or contact us to ask an expert a specific question.
