Her Story
About Pamela
Pamela Turner is a Research Health Science Specialist at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she contributes to clinical research and the coordination of research studies. Pamela’s work includes recruiting and enrolling participants, conducting study visits, supporting informed consent processes, maintaining research documentation, and ensuring compliance with study protocols and regulatory requirements. Her experience also includes roles as a, Recruitment Team Supervisor at Fox Chase Cancer Center and Biomedical Research Coordinator at the National Disease Research Interchange. Through these positions, Pamela has developed extensive experience in clinical trials, patient recruitment, regulatory compliance, study coordination, and biomedical research. Pamela’s academic background reflects her longstanding interest in medicine and scientific research. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 2011 and completed a Master of Science in Infectious Diseases through Drexel University biomedical graduate studies in 2016. Her professional interests have focused on research medicine, particularly infectious diseases, and her career has provided opportunities to work across clinical, biomedical, and pharmaceutical research environments. Pamela describes herself as hardworking, motivated, and determined, with a strong passion for biomedical research and a commitment to contributing to meaningful advances in healthcare. Outside of her professional life, Pamela enjoys expressing her creativity through modeling, an interest she has pursued for approximately 15 years, including bridal photography and cosplay. She also enjoys watching movies, especially horror films and Marvel productions, and loves dancing, particularly salsa and bachata. These interests highlight Pamela’s creative and energetic personality alongside her scientific career. In both her professional and personal pursuits, Pamela values integrity, respect, reliability, and dependability—qualities that have helped shape her approach to research, collaboration, and relationships with others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Pamela
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my mother whom passed away years ago from cancer, she inspired me from an early age by introducing me to science, biology, and medicine. As a nurse, she encouraged our family to pursue careers in the medical field. I also believe staying humble and grounded has been an important part of my journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to trust myself and not second-guess my decisions. Confidence in my abilities has helped me move forward and embrace opportunities with greater clarity.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to follow their passion and trust their instincts. Work hard, stay committed to your goals, and don’t be afraid to pursue what truly matters to you—you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is building trust with veterans and encouraging participation in clinical trials, particularly given the lasting impact of past ethical issues such as the Tuskegee study. I see an opportunity to strengthen transparency, education, and trust so veterans feel informed and comfortable participating in research.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, respect, reliability, and dependability are the values that matter most to me. I strive to bring these principles into both my professional work and personal relationships by being honest, respectful, and someone others can consistently count on.
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