At MAC Clinical Research, we believe in transparency, collaboration, and driving conversations that matter in clinical research.
Over the past months, we’ve worked closely with our leading experts to bring you something truly special—our brand-new video podcast series, MAC: Behind The Trials.
Hosted by Chris Chadwick, Vice President of Healthcare Services at MAC, this podcast gives you a front-row seat to the inner workings of clinical research and the thought leaders shaping its future.
You’ll gain firsthand insights from the people behind the trials—our scientists, project managers, and clinical experts—who share not just their expertise but their personal journeys, challenges, and the innovative solutions that keep MAC at the forefront of the industry.
From overcoming operational hurdles to advancing early clinical development, MAC: Behind The Trials isn’t just about the “what” of clinical research—it’s about the “how” and the “why.”
This series is designed to make you feel connected to the people driving progress, offering conversations that go beyond data to reveal the passion and purpose fueling clinical research.
Whether you’re a sponsor, a clinical professional, or someone curious about the future of medicine, this podcast will provide unfiltered insights into the complex and fascinating world of clinical research—all through the lens of those leading the way at MAC.
What to Expect from MAC: Behind The Trials
Throughout this series, Chris Chadwick discusses thought-provoking topics with MAC’s subject matter experts, covering some of the most pressing issues in clinical research.
Here’s a glimpse of what’s coming your way:
Introduction to MAC
Our first episode of MAC: Behind The Trials sets the foundation for the series, offering a closer look at MAC’s history, evolution, and future direction.
Through this episode, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of who we are, where we began, how we’ve grown, and the journey that continues to shape MAC today.
Joining Chris Chadwick, Vice President of Healthcare Services, are Jude Warburton, Vice President of Global Proposals, Claire Horsgood, Vice President of Operations and Growth, and Dr Shoona Vincent, Vice President of Clinical Science, who will share key insights into MAC’s growth, our strategic approach to clinical research, and the trends influencing the industry.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- The story behind MAC’s growth from a local network to a global, full-service CRO.
- How MAC’s in-house services, scientific leadership, and site network create unique advantages for sponsors.
- Why flexibility, operational excellence, and scientific expertise continue to set MAC apart.
- Key trends shaping clinical research today, including the growing role of psychedelic therapies and the continued importance of CNS research.
Psychedelics: The Current Landscape
In this episode, Chris discusses the evolving psychedelic research landscape with Dr Shoona Vincent, Vice President of Clinical Science at MAC, covering:
- The unique challenges of conducting psychedelic trials and how to navigate regulatory complexities.
- The importance of “set and setting” in participant safety and trial outcomes.
- Advances in psychedelic-assisted therapy and its potential for treatment-resistant mental health conditions.
- How psychedelic research is evolving within the global regulatory landscape.
Techniques to Accelerate Early Clinical Development
In this episode, Chris discusses early-phase development strategies with Dr John Connell, Chief Scientific Officer; Teresa Cullen, Clinical Sciences Manager; and Jorge Costa, Head of Neuroscience, exploring:
- Innovative techniques that shorten timelines and reduce patient burden.
- Trends in translational medicine and how cutting-edge methodologies benefit niche therapeutic areas like psychedelics and sleep research.
- Real-world examples of how these techniques have expedited study timelines and delivered cost savings.
How Can Metabolomics Help Shape the Future of Clinical Research?
In this episode, Chris discusses the topic with Dr Scott Harrison, Director of Laboratory Services at MAC, covering:
- The role of metabolomics in drug development and personalised medicine.
- How patient stratification can enhance clinical trial design.
- The integration of metabolomics into clinical research and its potential to accelerate participant recruitment.
- The future of phenotype testing and commercial applications.
Navigating the Red Tape: Regulatory Processes and the Cost of Delays
In this episode, Chris discusses operational strategies with Hollie Hulme, Associate Director of Project Management, and Chris De Falco, Senior Site Director at MAC, focusing on:
- Common operational challenges sponsors face, including regulatory navigation and timeline management.
- Lessons learned from external factors like the MHRA delays and how to mitigate future disruptions.
- How operational strategies—like resource allocation and cross-functional communication—can significantly enhance trial efficiency.
- The advantage of a seamless CRO-SMO integration, enabling faster approvals and streamlined study execution.
From Awareness to Enrolment: The Path for Successful Participant Recruitment
In this episode, Chris discusses participant recruitment with Nicola Armitstead, Vice President of Clinical Operations; Sean Wood, Head of Volunteer Enrolment Strategy; and Craig Birkbeck, Head of Global Patient Engagement Operations, covering:
- Why many trials struggle to meet enrollment targets and how to overcome common barriers.
- How technology, including AI, is revolutionising patient recruitment and retention strategies.
- Practical steps to increase participant diversity through community engagement and patient advocacy.
- How flexible communication methods improve participant retention and trial success.
Why You Should Tune In
MAC: Behind The Trials, it’s an invitation to sit down with the people shaping the industry. You’ll hear honest conversations, gain insider knowledge, and understand the thought processes behind the decisions that drive clinical advancements.
These episodes are designed to inform, engage, and inspire—whether you’re a sponsor seeking innovative solutions, a researcher looking to stay ahead of trends, or someone curious about how new therapies come to life.
Stay Connected
The podcast will be available in both audio and video formats on popular streaming platforms, including Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts—making it easy to tune in wherever and whenever suits you best.
Keep an eye on our LinkedIn for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and even more insights into how we’re helping bring innovative treatments to patients faster.
You can subscribe now to our YouTube channel to make sure you are among the first ones to watch our podcast.
