Episode 57: An Inside Look at Late Stage Clinical Development

Episode 57: An Inside Look at Late Stage Clinical Development

From The IPhO Podcast by IPhO

August 15, 2025 · 34 min · Episode 57

About this episode

This episode features fellows from the Merck Late Stage Clinical Development Fellowship Program discussing their experiences and insights in late-stage clinical development.

On this exciting episode of the IPhO Podcast, we’re shining a spotlight on the unique experiences of fellows working in one of the most critical phases of drug development: late-stage clinical development!Joining us are three fellows from the Merck Late Stage Clinical Development Fellowship Program: Vivian Tran, PharmD, Late Stage Clinical Development, General and Specialty Medicine; Lauren Dougherty, PharmD, Late Stage Clinical Development, Oncology; and Shakhzoda Rakhimova, PharmD, RPh, Late Stage Clinical Development, ID/Vaccines. In this conversation with their co-fellow and host, Alena Abraham, PharmD, they share their personal journeys into clinical development, what guided them toward their specific therapeutic areas, and how they’ve tackled common challenges, such as steep learning curves and navigating collaboration difficulties.They also highlight the key skills that have helped them thrive in their roles and offer valuable advice for students considering a similar path.Whether you're exploring fellowship options or have a strong interest in clinical development, this episode offers insider insight you won’t want to miss!

People in this episode

Host: Alena Abraham

Guests: Vivian Tran, Lauren Dougherty, Shakhzoda Rakhimova

Topics covered

  • late-stage clinical development
  • drug development
  • clinical fellowship
  • personal journeys
  • skills in clinical development

Keywords

  • clinical development
  • fellowship
  • drug development
  • oncology
  • general medicine
  • vaccines
  • career advice

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Merck Late Stage Clinical Development Fellowship Program, IPhO

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