If clinical trials are the backbone of medical progress, then Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are its beating heart—keeping everything running as it should. CRAs play a critical role in ensuring trials are conducted safely, ethically, and efficiently—but they’re also the essential bridge between clients, research teams, and trial sites. 

Right now, our CRA team is growing like never before. With new projects rolling in, innovative trials on the horizon, and a dynamic company culture that fosters career development, it’s an exciting time to be part of Accelagen. So let’s introduce some of the newest members of our expanding CRA team.

Elaine Freeman – practical, adaptable, coffee lover

Let’s just say that Elaine Freeman took the ‘scenic route’ to clinical research—starting her career as a nurse in emergency departments across Ireland, England, and Saudi Arabia. Five years ago Elaine transitioned into clinical trial coordination working in the UK at a large NHS University teaching hospital. There, she contributed to Covid-19 vaccine and treatment trials before leading a team recruiting participants across a broad and complex portfolio of clinical trials with specialities ranging from NICU and paediatric trials, to rare disease and acute in-patient trials. Elaine also worked with the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) gaining exposure at both regional and national levels in the delivery and impact of UK clinical trials.

Since joining Accelagen, she’s brightened up the office and says she has found the diversity of projects on the go really fulfiling—from helping patients with spinal cord injuries to infertility trials and rare disease studies. While she may be new to Melbourne, she’s already embraced ‘Aussie life’, balancing her new role with weekend runs along the Yarra and soaking up the famous Melbourne coffee culture.

“I loved that Accelagen is Australian-founded and values-driven. The company’s story and mission just resonated with me. It’s amazing to work on such a variety of projects—no two studies are the same, and that keeps things exciting.”

Fiona Bramley – resilient, dedicated, member of the 5AM club

With over 15 years of clinical research experience across Australia and the UK, Fiona Bramley brings a strong background in early-phase trials, site management, and regulatory compliance. She started her career as a Study Coordinator in a phase I clinical research unit in the UK, before moving into global clinical operations, where she worked in phase III-IV clinical trials across a range of therapeutic areas including virology, infectious disease, oncology, diabetes and neuroscience. Now, as a Senior CRA at Accelagen, she’s leveraging her extensive expertise to lead trials in ophthalmology, COVID vaccines, spinal cord injuries, and venous leg ulcers.

Having worked on everything from HIV trials to neurological studies, she thrives on the diversity of research and the opportunity to learn with each new study.

“By the end of a trial, you’ve gained so much knowledge in a therapeutic area you might have known nothing about before. That’s what makes this work so fascinating—you’re always learning, always evolving.”

Fiona is also one of a growing number of remote CRAs based in Brisbane QLD, reflecting Accelagen’s push for smarter, more efficient ways to run trials and representing our Australia-wide footprint. Her secret to work-life balance? Joining the 5AM club and sneaking in a sunrise run before she dives into her work.

Sam Darby – innovative, mission-driven, #STEPtember champ

Similar to several of his teammates, Sam Darby’s career has been anything but linear. With a Bachelor of Medical Science and experience in pathology, as well as a Master of Science, with research completed at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, Sam has worked across the UK, US, and Australia—doing everything from diagnosing osteoporosis in remote regions to navigating highly regulated European research environments.

Since joining Accelagen in September 2024, he’s already been promoted and is quickly becoming a go-to on clinical systems and technology implementation. 

“CRAs are always in demand, and at Accelagen, you’re not stuck in one lane. You can move up, move across, and build a career that fits you. You’re not siloed into one department, which speaks volumes to the supportive culture here.”

His passion? Digital innovation and decentralised trials—where patients no longer have to travel long distances to participate, improving access and retention.

“I grew up in country Victoria, and my dad had to drive hours for his clinical trial treatments. If we can bring trials to patients instead, that’s a game-changer.”

Beyond his work in clinical research, Sam is always up for a challenge—especially when it’s for a good cause. He won our team’s STEPtember challenge, walking 10,000+ steps a day to raise funds for cerebral palsy research and support services. And with a little help from this four-legged walking buddy, Pipi, we might add!

Stephanie – experienced, focused, collaborative

Bringing 15+ years of expertise in clinical research across all phases, with two Masters degrees in Science, and experience in leadership roles at multinational CROs, Stephanie Buisson joined the Accelagen team in early 2024. Stephanie started her career in Canada prior to relocating to Australia where she gained experience working in clinics, international CROs as well as pharmaceutical companies. Seeking a smaller, more collaborative environment where she could mentor the next generation of CRAs, Stephanie has a strong background in oncology trials and deeply understands the urgency and importance of getting new treatments to market.

“I think we all have people in our lives who have had or passed away from cancer.. My first clinical trial ended up becoming a widely used drug in treating Metastatic Prostate cancer. Seeing that kind of real-world impact is what inspired me to develop a career in clinical research.”

Beyond her role as a Principal CRA, Stephanie is also passionate about mentoring and developing the junior team members and helping shape Accelagen’s expansion into new therapeutic areas.

“There is so much collaboration and it’s really nice to be in contact with so many other team members on a daily basis. I find how the company started to be very inspiring as well, and they really bring people in who share their values.”

Tara – strategic, organised, curious, tea-lover

Joining the team in June 2024, Tara Rees brings with her 20+ years of experience in clinical research and pharmacovigilance. Tara boasts an impressive CV and significant industry experience across global CROs and large pharmaceutical companies in Australia and the UK, and, at Accelagen, is excited to be adding Phase 1 trials to her expertise.

“Phase 1 trials were completely new to me, and I love the fast-paced environment. Every study is a learning experience. Accelagen is really a place where you can grow.”

Tara is relishing the opportunity to manage clinical trials across all phases, and collaborating regularly with her fellow team members.

“I’ve worked for big pharma companies and this is so different. I love that all our teams are based in Australia. It makes collaboration so much easier.”

A culture of growth, innovation & impact

From career changers to industry aficionados, Accelagen’s newest cohort of CRAs prove that a career in clinical research is anything but one-size-fits-all. With a shared sense of purpose, a love of relationship building, these five new team members are a testament to what’s possible when you put people first. 

Accelagen is always on the lookout for passionate, talented individuals who share our mission to accelerate human health. Interested in joining us? Explore our Careers page to see current opportunities.