Clinical Trials Day 2025: A Day of Learning, Connection and Outreach

Published: May 28, 2025

On May 20, 2025, the Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) marked Clinical Trials Day with a full slate of activities designed to raise awareness, share resources and celebrate the progress made through clinical trials and the dedicated individuals at the University of Miami who make them possible.

The day kicked off at the CTSI Training Center in the Don Soffer Clinical Research Center with a panel discussion with successful clinical trialists at the U. Each of them shared insights from their experiences, highlighting what has contributed to their success in clinical trials and the most important lessons they’ve learned along the way. Moderated by CTSI Co-Director and MPI Erin Kobetz, Ph.D., MPH, the panel featured:

• Michael Benatar, M.D., Ph.D. (Neurology – Neuromuscular)
• Dushyantha T. Jayaweera, M.D. (Medicine – Infectious Diseases)
• Richard A. Preston, M.D., M.S.P.H., MBA (Medicine – Clinical Pharmacology)
• Estelamari Rodriguez, M.D., M.P.H. (Medicine – Medical Oncology)

Following the panel, researchers and staff gathered for a Lunch & Resources Roundup, where institutional units shared tools and services designed to support clinical and translational studies. Representatives from Research Intelligence & Capacity, Clinical Translational Research Site (CTRS), UHealth IT / CTSI Informatics, Investigator Initiated Trial Services at the U (IITS-U), and Behavioral and Community-Based Research (BCSR) were on hand to connect with researchers, answer questions, and provide practical guidance.

Simultaneously, the CTSI hosted an information booth in the courtyard of the Lois Pope LIFE Center. This outreach initiative allowed clinical research staff and faculty to interact directly with CTSI team members, learn about available resources, and discuss opportunities for collaboration. Attendees enjoyed complimentary cookies and received CTSI-branded giveaways, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for their contributions to clinical research.

Researchers were also invited to a drop-in session focused on improving study promotion. Attendees learned how to use UMiamiHealthResearch.org, and received guidance on strategies to increase visibility and participant interest.

Clinical Trials Day 2025 reflected the CTSI’s ongoing commitment to research excellence through shared knowledge, community-building, and practical support. By facilitating these events, the CTSI continues to strengthen the infrastructure and relationships that drive impactful clinical and translational research.