OneFlorida research coordinator Jamie Hensley began serving as co-chair of the North Florida chapter of the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) on November 1. At OneFlorida and UF, Hensley currently serves as site clinical coordinator for the NIH’s All of Us research program and assists on a variety of research projects for PCORnet and other agencies.

Hensley has been with UF since 2012, first working as an administrative coordinator for the Florida Healthy Kids EQRO contract. Prior to joining UF, she was a clinical trials coordinator at the UC Davis Dermatology Clinic in Sacramento, California.

“I’m really excited to be an active leader in SOCRA,” Hensley said. She shares leadership responsibilities with Timothy Guinn, who serves as research administrator for the UF Health Cancer Center’s clinical trials.

SOCRA is a national nonprofit, charitable and educational membership organization that’s committed to “providing education, certification, and networking opportunities” for site-based clinical coordinators and other professionals involved in clinical research activities. The organization provides educational programming, continuing education and certification programs for clinical research professionals, along with opportunities for peer recognition, career development, and a national conference.

At the top of Hensley’s and Guinn’s list of planned activities for the chapter: test prep.

“We had planned to host a certification exam review and testing session prior to COVID-19,” Hensley said. “Once we are able to meet in person again, this will be a top priority.”

Passing the SOCRA exam demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of research practices and a commitment to the industry.

The North Florida chapter is one of about 75 regional chapters of SOCRA nationwide. The chapter’s members meet at least twice a year by regulation, but often meet three to four times per year to discuss advancements in the industry, share best practices, hear lectures from guest speakers and earn continuing education credits (required to maintain certifications). The chapter works closely with the local chapter of the Association of Clinical Research Professionals, another national research accrediting agency.

“I’m so proud of the research I do for One Florida, and having SOCRA recognition only encourages me further,” Hensley said. “In this role, my goal would be for every single person who attends our meetings to gain valuable knowledge and professional development opportunities that translate to high-caliber work and reliable research outcomes.
I’d also like to intentionally increase diversity and inclusion. Connecting with research professionals of all walks of life will only enrich our organization and our industry.”