Alicia Flowers-Garner
Alicia Flowers-Garner is a seasoned Senior Clinical Data Manager and eTMF (electronic Trial Master File) Data Management Expert with over a decade of experience in the clinical research industry. Currently contracted through Softworld and serving as an eTMF Data Management Expert for Moderna, Alicia’s role is instrumental in ensuring eTMF inspection readiness for regulatory authorities such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), and the United Kingdom’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Her expertise spans the full clinical trial lifecycle—from study start-up to database lock—across Phase I–III trials, with therapeutic area experience in oncology, immunology, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, and autoimmune disorders. With advanced academic training including a Master’s degree in Health Administration, a Bachelor’s degree in Biology: Pre-Medicine, and an Associate’s degree in Arts, Alicia has held leadership positions at some of the industry’s top contract research organizations and academic institutions, including PRA Health Sciences, ICON plc, Syneos Health, TFS Health Science, and Duke Clinical Research Institute. Based in Jackson, Mississippi, Alicia remains deeply committed to mentoring emerging professionals, championing data quality, and advancing clinical innovation to improve clinical research outcomes worldwide.
• University of Phoenix- Master's
• Jackson State University- Bachelor's
• Hinds Community College- A.A.
• National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the combination of persistent prayer and unwavering effort. There have been moments throughout my career when the challenges felt overwhelming, but prayer gave me peace, and reflecting on how far I had come—and how much effort I had already invested—reminded me that perseverance would yield purpose. It’s this internal balance of faith and diligence that continues to fuel my journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to maintain a positive mindset, especially in the face of adversity. The clinical research field is demanding and ever-evolving, and while obstacles are inevitable, a positive outlook allows you to see them as opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks. It’s about learning how to stay steady when things feel uncertain.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be adaptable and embrace change. Clinical research is a dynamic field where no two days are ever the same. New challenges arise frequently due to evolving protocols, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements. Staying open to learning, being flexible, and maintaining curiosity will position you for long-term success. Don’t be afraid to take up space and ask questions—your voice matters.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the most exciting opportunities is the chance to be an integral part of the full drug development process. As a clinical data management professional, I sit at the core of clinical research—ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of data that will ultimately support regulatory submissions and, more importantly, lead to life-changing therapies for patients. With the increasing complexity of studies and regulatory scrutiny, our role has never been more impactful or necessary.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In my professional life, I value a strong work ethic, respect in the workplace, and the ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance. These pillars help me remain focused and resilient in a high-demand industry. In my personal life, self-care and family are foundational. They keep me grounded, renewed, and ready to lead—both at work and at home.