Modernizing Clinical Trial Operations With Merck's Jennifer Sheller

Modernizing Clinical Trial Operations With Merck's Jennifer Sheller

Author: Ben Comer December 22, 2025 Duration: 55:39

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On this week's episode of the Business of Biotech, Jennifer Sheller, SVP and Head of Global Clinical Trial Operations at Merck talks about simplifying trial protocols and what she likes about Merck's hybrid functional service provider model for conducting trials in over 60 countries. Jennifer shares her experiences integrating Merck's acquisitions without breaking studies or losing people, using new technology to improve trial operations, and co-designing studies with trial sites for agility and speed.  

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Navigating the complex journey from a promising scientific idea to a commercially viable therapy involves far more than lab work. Business Of Biotech, hosted by Ben Comer, exists in that crucial space where scientific ambition meets real-world execution. This podcast speaks directly to the founders, executives, and visionaries steering emerging biopharma companies, offering a grounded conversation about the non-scientific hurdles that define success. You'll hear detailed discussions on the organizational, financial, and operational realities of the industry-from securing funding and building a team to managing clinical trials, manufacturing, and regulatory pathways. Each episode leans on the hard-earned wisdom of accomplished guests who share commentary and practical best practices. The focus is consistently on the multifaceted challenges leaders face while trying to bring a company from its earliest stages to impact in the clinic and the market. For anyone involved in building a life sciences company, this podcast provides an essential, candid look at the entire ecosystem, making the daunting path of biotech entrepreneurship feel a bit more navigable and a lot less lonely.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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