Salama Lipdo, MS, CCRP
Salama Lipdo is a Clinical Research Professional and Regulatory Affairs Manager with extensive experience leading complex oncology and medical device clinical trials. Based in the Greater Chicago Area, she oversees regulatory operations for more than 50 global studies at the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her work bridges scientific innovation and regulatory rigor—ensuring compliance with FDA, ICH-GCP, and ISO standards while accelerating study start-up and maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and ethical research conduct.
Certified as a Clinical Research Professional (CCRP), Salama brings a systems-level perspective to clinical operations, harmonizing efficiency with precision. She is recognized for her ability to align cross-functional teams—principal investigators, sponsors, and regulatory agencies—to streamline submissions, enhance audit readiness, and drive continuous improvement in compliance frameworks. Her leadership extends beyond operations; she mentors junior staff and leads discussions in Data Safety Monitoring Board meetings, reinforcing transparency and proactive risk management across all phases of clinical research.
Salama’s background reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing science and public health. She holds a Master of Science in Medical Physiology from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience from Loyola University Chicago. Beyond her professional role, she has contributed to global health initiatives as an Associate Board Member with Surge for Water and conducted impactful public health research at Northwestern University, focusing on care gaps for survivors of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting. Her work exemplifies a commitment to integrity, innovation, and improving lives through research.
• Conflicts of Interest
• Human Subjects Protection
• Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP)
• CITI Good Clinical Practice Course
• Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine - MS
• Mulcahy Scholarship
• Surge for Water
• Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
• Heartland Home Health Care and Hospice
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to consistency, curiosity, and compassion. I never stop learning—whether it’s understanding new FDA policies or developing stronger leadership techniques. I approach every situation with integrity and empathy, which allows me to build meaningful connections with both teams and patients. In my current role in regulatory management, I ensure that cancer clinical trials meet all federal and institutional compliance standards. My work centers on patient protection, ethical research oversight, and maintaining the integrity of clinical trial documentation. My journey began in a biochemistry lab, where I studied cancer drug development using light therapy. While I found research deeply rewarding, I discovered a stronger passion for the side of science that safeguards patients’ rights and promotes ethical study conduct. That realization led me to regulatory management—a field that allows me to combine my scientific background with my commitment to advocacy and ethical integrity.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never stop investing in your own growth—both personally and professionally. Continuous learning keeps you adaptable, relevant, and confident in an ever-changing field. One of my most notable professional achievements was passing my national certification exam in regulatory affairs earlier this year. It was a rigorous four-hour exam that tested advanced knowledge of FDA codes and international standards. Earning that certification was not only a validation of years of study and experience but also a defining moment that reinforced my confidence and commitment to excellence in regulatory management.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be precise, be ethical, and be brave. Regulatory work requires a sharp eye for detail and an unwavering sense of integrity. Don’t shy away from complexity—embrace it as an opportunity to grow and make an impact. Most importantly, remember that behind every study, protocol, or report is a patient whose safety and well-being depend on your diligence and compassion.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field right now is keeping pace with the constantly evolving landscape of federal and international regulations—especially as technology and AI become more deeply integrated into clinical research. However, this challenge also presents a tremendous opportunity: the ability to modernize compliance systems and streamline processes to make them faster, safer, and more transparent for patients. By embracing innovation while maintaining ethical and regulatory rigor, we can strengthen both the integrity and the impact of clinical research.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me—both personally and professionally—are creativity, connection, and balance. I find joy and grounding in spending time with my family and friends, cooking new dishes, traveling, and exploring photography. These creative outlets and meaningful relationships help me stay centered and inspired, providing balance to the structure and precision of regulatory work. They remind me that while my profession is about compliance and ethics, it’s ultimately rooted in humanity and care.