Before the Lab: Roots & Dreams
My name is Brisilda Pashaj, I am 29 years old, and I was born in Korça, Albania, a city fondly known as the “Paris of Albania.” I completed my bachelor’s degree at the University of Medicine in Tirana, specializing in Medical and Technical Science as a High Laboratory Technician.
From a young age, I dreamed of becoming a doctor or pursuing a profession where I could help others. My fascination with biology began early, as it seemed like the “Subject of Life,” enabling me to explore the mysteries of living systems.
Life often takes our dreams in unexpected directions, and sometimes what we envision for ourselves evolves into something different. I have always aspired to work in a hospital helping patients. When I was accepted into the Lab Technician program, I felt a sense of sadness, believing I was unable to fulfill my dream of becoming a doctor. However, I have come to realize that fate had something even better in store for me.
Foundations of My Career: Lessons from My First Role
After earning my Master’s degree in Medical Biology, I felt I had fulfilled my childhood dream. When I completed my Master’s degree, I applied for a position in the Department of Biology at the University of Medicine in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Following three attempts, I was accepted for a one-month probation period and eventually became a Molecular Biologist.
In this role, I assisted in preparing practical classes, study manuals, and tests for first-year students in medicine, pharmacy, and dental medicine. I also gained valuable skills and experience in molecular biology, immunology, and cell biology.
While working in the Medical Biology Department, I assisted with research experiments, gaining foundational experience and practical skills in an academic setting. This role allowed me to collaborate closely with lecturers, professors, and assistants, which enriched my understanding of the academic environment. I had the privilege of working directly with Professor Victoria Sarafian, whom I hold in great respect. She gave me my first real opportunity to be part of an inspiring team and immerse myself in the world of scientific research.
Discovering Comac Medical: A New Opportunity
My two years as a Molecular Biologist were foundational, providing invaluable insights into research and laboratory work. Yet, over time, I felt a growing desire to explore new horizons in my career. I decided it was time to seek a new job. After submitting numerous applications, I was on the verge of losing hope when a friend reached out to me about an open position at Comac Medical, an established CRO company. Intrigued by the opportunity to explore something different and step away from the lab, I decided to pursue it.
Soon, I received a call from the Human Resources Manager at Comac Medical to schedule an interview. I was excited about the chance to interview with a distinguished company with over 20 years of experience, a global presence, and offices worldwide. The interview went smoothly, and I felt comfortable throughout the process. It was truly an honor to meet Dr. Milen Vrabevski, former CEO and current Board Member, as well as Mr. Vladimir Goranov, former CFO and current Co-CEO, during the interview process. When I was offered the position of Site Coordinator, I felt like I had finally found the right place for me.
Though the role was based in Albania while I’d hoped to work in Sofia, I found myself at a crossroads: stay in Bulgaria or return to my homeland and embark on a new path in clinical research. It wasn’t an easy decision, but ultimately, I chose to return to Tirana, fully aware that this marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my career with Comac Medical.
First Experience in Clinical Research
At first, clinical research was unfamiliar territory. But from the moment I started, I realized I was a perfect match. The dynamic environment, ever-evolving medical knowledge, and the team work required quickly won me over. I discovered a passion for clinical research I never knew I had. My fluency in English, Bulgarian and Albanian proved to be an advantage, allowing me to bridge communication between teams and streamline processes.
The first project I was involved in was a Nephrology study focused on patients suffering from chronic kidney disease with metabolic acidosis. My responsibilities included:
- – Supporting the site team with subject pre-selection and recruitment;
- – Assisting in planning and preparing for subject visits;
- – Collaborating with and facilitating on-site and remote monitoring visits;
- – Ensuring timely maintenance and calibration of site equipment.
A typical day as a Site Coordinator begins with planning patient visits. When patients arrive, I assist the doctor in following the scheduled activities according to the protocol and help with any tasks delegated by the investigator. Throughout the visit, I keep track of all information provided by the patients and document the procedures performed, noting the timing of each activity. At the end of the visit, I complete the Case Report Form (CRF) together with the sub-investigator.
Working with patients and doctors presents its challenges, but I find this job rewarding because no two days are the same; every day is dynamic. I have expanded my network by getting to know doctors, nurses, lab technicians, and other site staff involved in different projects.
The projects I worked on were engaging and involved diverse groups of patients. I had the opportunity to hear their stories, and it was clear that many viewed their participation in the studies as a meaningful chance for treatment. Throughout each trial, I received invaluable support from doctors, nurses, and colleagues, including Monitors and Site Coordinators from Comac Medical in Macedonia, Romania and Turkey. This supportive, collaborative environment helped me feel comfortable and made the work truly enjoyable.
Career Development in Comac Medical
After two years as a Site Coordinator I, my dedication and hard work were recognized with a promotion to Site Coordinator II. This new role has given me even more opportunities to grow and make a meaningful contribution to the field of clinical research. Every day presents new challenges, and I am grateful for the trust and appreciation Comac Medical has shown me throughout my journey.
Over the course of my work, I have had the opportunity to coordinate three studies in the Nephrology and Gastroenterology therapeutic areas. Additionally, I have conducted feasibility studies across various therapeutic areas, including Hematology, Oncology, Pulmonology, and Pediatrics. With my promotion, my responsibilities expanded to encompass a broader range of studies, including a Gastroenterology study focused on Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease. One of the aspects I find most exciting is traveling to various sites across cities in Albania, where each location offers new insights and challenges.
After five years at Comac Medical, I was thrilled to be offered a new role as a Clinical Research Associate (CRA). To gain hands-on knowledge and skills, I was invited to Comac Medical’s office in Sofia, Bulgaria, for a month-long training program. The experience was incredible—I had the chance to work alongside seasoned Monitors and Clinical Trial Managers, who generously shared their expertise and provided invaluable insights into the CRA role. The entire team was supportive and welcoming, making me feel right at home.
While I was no longer working directly with patients, my role shifted to collaborating closely with doctors. My responsibility was to monitor their work on clinical trials and ensure effective communication regarding tasks that needed to be completed. Working with doctors always presents challenges, but I believe there’s nothing that humanity cannot overcome.
For newcomers to clinical research, my advice is simple: don’t give up. Be consistent, stay patient, and trust the process. If others have succeeded, there’s no reason you can’t achieve the same. Reflecting on this journey, I am genuinely grateful for choosing this path—it’s been both challenging and deeply rewarding.
Clinical Research Landscape in Albania
Clinical research in Albania is developing rapidly. While some doctors are now receiving training in clinical research, many others remain uninvolved in clinical trials. From my perspective and experience, there is a genuine interest among doctors to participate in such trials, but a lack of experience often leads to their exclusion by sponsors. This presents a challenge we frequently encounter when proposing doctors for studies.
On the other hand, patients are a promising target population. Albania has limited treatment options for many diseases, especially rare ones. As a result, clinical trials provide patients with valuable opportunities to receive free consultations, examinations, and lab tests.
I believe Albania has the potential to become a preferred location for clinical trials. Our doctors are professionally prepared and will gain Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training, while patients are eager to participate. As a developing country, we are on the path to improvement, and I am optimistic about the future of clinical research here.
Vision for the Future
Today, I can confidently say that choosing to return to Albania and join Comac Medical was the right decision for me. Clinical Research has become my passion and I am excited to continue growing in this field.
As I reflect on my goals within the clinical research field, I envision a career that not only enhances my professional expertise but also contributes to the broader growth of clinical research in Albania. My aspiration is to advance into roles that allow me to influence the strategic direction of clinical trials, fostering collaborations between local doctors, sponsors, and regulatory bodies.
I hope to be at the forefront of developing training programs for healthcare professionals in Albania, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate effectively in clinical trials. By promoting Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and increasing awareness of the importance of clinical research, I aim to bridge the gap between medical professionals and the opportunities that clinical trials can offer.
Moreover, I am passionate about mentoring future professionals in the field. I believe that sharing my experiences and insights can inspire and guide the next generation of clinical researchers in Albania. By fostering a supportive network, I hope to empower young professionals to pursue careers in clinical research, ensuring a sustainable growth trajectory for this vital sector.
