MEET YOUR STAFF: Introducing Sadia Yaakov, Medical Project Manager at ALK Positive, Inc

1.        Tell us a little about yourself - your personal and professional background - and what inspires you about your work in clinical research and oncology.

I was born and raised in Pennsylvania and had an interest in cancer research from the time that I was a child. I was exposed to Fox Chase Cancer Center very early on and knew from that moment that I wanted to do something to help in the fight against cancer. I attended University of the Sciences in Philadelphia for both my undergraduate and graduate degree as the school had a strong emphasis on the sciences and health professions. After receiving my undergraduate degree in 2008, I was fortunate to be able to break into the clinical research industry with an organization that specialized in early phase oncology trials. I had the opportunity to work on a number of cancer trials (various tumor types), meet industry pharma and biotech sponsors, visit multiple cancer institutes, and attend oncology conferences.  

2.        What inspired you to join ALK Positive, Inc. and what are your main duties in your role as Medical Project Manager?

I was looking for a change of pace and when I learned more about ALK Positive, Inc. and met with some of the team members (who are also patients), it inspired me to join the organization. While I was completing my Doctor of Science degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences from 2020-2022, one of the recurring themes was that the healthcare model is shifting to a more patient-centric and personalized medicine approach. Working for a patient-led organization provides the ideal environment to better understand the patient’s needs and identify some of the barriers that prevent patients from receiving the best treatment options. My main duties include supporting the RAC (Research Acceleration Committee), CTC (Clinical Trials Committee) and TIG (Translational Investigation Group) initiatives and activities.

3.        What is the most important lesson you've learned in your career?

The most important lesson I’ve learned in the 15+ years that I’ve been managing clinical trials is that time is of the essence. Acceleration of clinical research is critical in helping improve outcomes for cancer patients. Although much progress has been made over the last decade or two, there is still a great need to identify better targeted therapies for various cancers.  

4.        What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family (my husband of 15 years, my 9-year-old daughter, my 7-year-old son, and our 2-year-old chocolate lab). I love to take my kids to their activities, go out to eat, spend time at the beach, take nature walks, and attend concerts.

5.        What are you most passionate and motivated about? (causes, hobbies, interests etc.)

I love animals (especially dogs) and am fascinated by nature. I also enjoy participating in cancer walks and other events that help raise money for a cure for both oncology and diabetes. My husband and I have done various events over the years and our favorite was the Tour de Cure in Honolulu, Hawaii in 2018.