UROP Project
MODERNIZING & DECENTRALIZING CLINICAL TRIALS WITH AI, DH, & COMMUNITY DRIVEN INNOVATION TO DELIVER BETTER HEALTH FOR ALL AMERICANS
public health, clinical trials. diabetes, cardiovascular disease, artificial intelligence
Research Mentor: Dr. Eugenia Flores Millender, she/her/ella
Department, College, Affiliation: Center of Population Sciences for Health Empowerment, Nursing
Contact Email: amu18@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Ms. Alyson Urbaniak she/her/ella
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: amu18@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Center of Population Sciences for Health Empowerment, Nursing
Contact Email: amu18@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Ms. Alyson Urbaniak she/her/ella
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: amu18@fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 6
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: Remote
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 6
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors
Project Location: Remote
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Tuesday, September 1
Start Time: 12:00
End Time: 5:00
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/2228628652
Project Description
This research project focuses on implementing decentralized, at-home clinical trial methodologies to enhance health outcomes across American communities, with emphasis on adolescents to young adults (18-21 years), aging older adults (55+ years), nationwide patient representation, and key stakeholders and community- based organizations (CBOs). The overall goal is to expand access to decentralized trials and strengthen the FDA’s regulatory mission by improving data quality, participant representation, and informed decision making.Research Tasks: Research assistants will primarily conduct a systemic literature review identifying key barriers and facilitators regarding patient participation in decentralized (remote) clinical trials that use patient-generated health data (PGHD). Using the Covidence platform, research assistants will evaluate peer-reviewed publications to identify topically-relevant articles and work together in synthesizing the articles to write a final manuscript.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Recommended: source evaluation, database searching, critical thinking, reference management
Mentoring Philosophy
My approach to mentoring undergraduate students is grounded in the belief that every student brings unique experiences, perspectives, strengths, and aspirations to the research environment. I strive to create an inclusive and welcoming space where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute meaningfully, regardless of their prior research experience or background.I view mentorship as a collaborative process that balances guidance with independence. While I provide the support, training, and resources necessary for students to succeed, I also encourage them to take ownership of their learning and research activities. I believe that fostering self-motivation, curiosity, and initiative helps students develop confidence in their abilities and prepares them for future academic and professional opportunities.
To support this growth, I establish clear expectations, maintain open communication, and encourage students to set personal and academic goals. I value effort, persistence, and continuous learning, recognizing that mistakes and challenges are important parts of the research process. By creating opportunities for students to ask questions, explore new ideas, and engage in problem-solving, I aim to cultivate critical thinking and a sense of intellectual independence.
Ultimately, my goal is to help undergraduate students develop not only technical and research skills but also the confidence, professionalism, and self-directed mindset needed to become successful scholars, professionals, and lifelong learners.