CRP Spotlight: Isa Maldonado

Published: May 16, 2025

Meet Isa Maldonado, Program Director of the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program at the School of Nursing and Health Studies.  Isa has been at UM for three years and in the clinical research professional (CRP) arena for five years.

She is passionate about studying communities and populations. “It is really interesting to observe patterns, emerging trends, and shifts within specific patient groups. I find great meaning in taking a ‘big picture’ approach to healthcare, looking beyond individual cases to understand the broader factors that influence health outcomes. As a future research professional, I’m excited by the opportunity to uncover findings that can inform physicians and policymakers, to help implement the most effective and equitable practices for our communities and patient populations,” Isa said.  

Her most rewarding moment as a CRP was when the ECHO team successfully met all the metrics for the first phase of the grant. Throughout the first year, the team adhered to strict data collection standards and was evaluated on performance at year’s end, working diligently to consistently meet their goals. 

“It was easy to get caught up in the week-to-week pressure of hitting our survey and sample completion goals, but reaching the end of this phase gave us a chance to step back and truly appreciate the scope of what we had accomplished. Seeing the full picture, and how much data we had gathered and the effort it took, was incredibly fulfilling,” Isa said.  

She is deeply grateful to be a part of such a dedicated team and meaningful project. A tip she offers other CRPs is to not be scared to ask questions. She feels curiosity can really drive the field forward.  During her time away from work, she loves cooking, hot yoga, reading, and indulging in the occasional Netflix true crime binge.  

Isa will begin the Ph.D. program in Prevention Science and Community Health this coming August at the University of Miami. She is excited for this next chapter and very grateful that she can maintain involvement in the ECHO study while completing her studies.