Karen Smith

Tell us about your latest work.

In my role at MIA I retrieve, collect and interpret clinical information on melanoma (and skin cancer) patients from various sources for entry into the Melanoma Research Database (MRD). My goal is to ensure high quality data which is then used in research projects. I am located at Westmead Hospital, collecting relevant patient data for the MRD from Western Sydney hospitals affiliated with MIA. My work also includes database and process improvements, training activities, and interaction with the Biospecimen Bank, IT development team, clinicians and other health professionals.

Patient disease databases such as our MRD, are a key tool in understanding patterns and responses to treatment, particularly when connected with blood/tissue collection and gene profiling. You can read more about the MRD here.

How did you get into the melanoma research field?

I have worked in several roles within Clinical Trials Data Management in the pharmaceutical industry and also on project work in the not-for profit sector. The majority of this research work was in the cancer field. Before joining MIA I was working on projects for targeted therapies and immunotherapy in melanoma and became acquainted with some of the physicians affiliated with MIA. When I saw the opportunity to work at MIA, I was eager to become involved.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

When working with a pharma company I enjoyed working with fellow clinical data managers internationally to develop strategy, standard operating procedures and training for clinical trial data management and laboratory data handling.

What is your favourite part of your work?

I always find the patient story interesting. Seeing their health background and then moving through their journey with disease and treatments, especially when treatment is successful for them.

I am proud to be contributing to further research in improving treatment for cancer patients.

Do you have a nickname?

Yes. Mostly I’m ‘Kazz’. To my school friends I was ‘Chips’ (from the Smith’s brand). I am now also ‘Kaya’ (from my first nephew’s early attempt to say my name, which has stuck!)

Describe yourself in one word.

Conscientious.

What is your favourite quote?

“The wonder of the world, the beauty and the power; the shapes of things, their colours, lights and shades; these I saw. Look ye also while life lasts.”  Denys Watkins-Pitchford (aka ‘BB’).

What is your favourite movie?

I have so many favourites! Galaxy Quest and The Tuxedo would be up there, or pretty much anything with Julie Andrews in it – top of that list would be The Sound of Music and Thoroughly Modern Millie.

What is a book you’ve enjoyed recently?

South Wind by Norman Douglas – a wonderfully descriptive, charming novel, chock full of quirky characters and their routine, yet extraordinary, lives.