By Nicole
Host, The Ascend Advantage Series
In the ever-evolving world of clinical research, few voices carry the experience, clarity, and conviction of Nina Clarke-Walker, Senior Vice President of Clinical Research at Heart Rhythm Clinical Research Solutions (HRCRS). With a career that spans major players like UBC, PPD, PRA Health Sciences, and Johnson & Johnson’s Mentor Worldwide, Nina brings both a wide-angle view and a grounded approach to advancing clinical trials—especially in the heart rhythm space.
I had the privilege of sitting down with Nina to unpack the moments that shaped her leadership journey, the qualities she values in rising professionals, and how programs like Clintern Ascend can serve as a vital bridge into the industry.
When asked about the pivotal moments that defined her career trajectory, Nina pointed to the importance of timing, alignment, and team culture. “It's always important to have your pulse on the industry and what’s happening in the space you want to grow in,” she said. For her, each transition—whether triggered by new opportunities or organizational changes—has been rooted in thoughtful reflection.
A strong, collaborative team and a company whose strategic direction aligns with personal goals are essential ingredients. But perhaps most pivotal? Networking.
“Networking is a huge part of all the opportunities I've had,” she emphasized. “Both pharma and med tech are relatively small worlds. Once you engage with key stakeholders and form those meaningful connections, that will often propel you to the next level.”
Nina is a staunch advocate for mentorship—especially for individuals entering the clinical research field without established industry networks. Whether it’s through platforms like LinkedIn, alumni connections, or programs like Clintern Ascend, she believes in creating more entry points into the industry.
“If you're new to the industry, it’s hard to make those connections,” she acknowledged. “Programs that offer training, access, and a structured way to meet mentors are incredibly valuable. Reach out to people with whom you share something in common—even a mutual connection can open a door.”
From her vantage point overseeing clinical research operations and strategy at HRCRS, Nina sees several pressing gaps in the industry—gaps that entry-level programs are well-positioned to help fill.
“Sometimes the need is therapeutic expertise, sometimes it’s seasoned professionals—it varies. But for those entering the field, it’s about familiarizing yourself with the space you want to grow in. Know the key players. Understand the technology. Do your research.”
She encourages aspiring professionals to identify leading companies in their area of interest and seek out opportunities to observe or intern. “You can learn a lot just by Googling,” she said with a smile.
Reflecting on her own start in clinical research—beginning at Covance (now Labcorp) in a formal CRA training program—Nina noted that the landscape has changed significantly.
“Today, companies aren't investing in training just for the sake of it. They want to see value from day one,” she explained. That’s where programs like Clintern Ascend—which pair self-paced training with remote internships—become especially powerful.
“Being able to train on the job while contributing to deliverables is a win-win,” she said. “It shows initiative, and it often leads directly to employment opportunities.”
When it comes to the qualities she values most in early-career professionals, Nina emphasized proactivity and due diligence.
“Don't wait to be asked—volunteer. Be someone who asks, ‘How can I help?’” she said. “And if you’re applying or interviewing, do your homework. Find out who the hiring manager is. Look for commonalities. That level of preparation sets you apart.”
For those beginning to lead projects or manage teams, Nina offered one final piece of advice: focus on cross-functional collaboration.
“No matter your division—whether it's data management, safety, regulatory—you must build strong partnerships across teams,” she said. “The success of a trial depends on how well we work together.”
In every part of our conversation, Nina Clarke-Walker returned to one central theme: opportunity—how to recognize it, pursue it, and grow through it. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking your next challenge in clinical research, her message is clear:
“Be curious. Be bold. And build the kind of network and knowledge base that opens doors you didn’t even know existed.”
Inspired by Nina Clarke-Walker's journey? You're closer than you think.
At Obedtek, we help driven individuals break into clinical research with expert training and remote internships that provide real-world experience equivalent to a year on the job.
Ready to start your own Clintern Ascend story?
To learn more about Clintern Ascend programs, visit www.obedtek.com or call 302-208-4020.
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