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Meet The Team

Fully-staffed Scientific Research Team with IN-HOUSE psychologists, behavioral scientists, statisticians, and survey methodologist offering tailored research solutions with unparalleled integrity and an exceptional client experience. Clinical Research Team enhances ARAC's standardization and facility training with on-site clinical assessments, proper sample distribution, and compliance oversight.

 

Dependable, versatile team with tack-sharp focus and agility. Hands-on, all-team approach ensures to deliver rapid-response, personalized and effective client SOLUTIONS.​ CLICK HERE for an ARAC Directory + TEAM BIOS.

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Dr. Jessica Zdinak

Chief Research Officer, CEO

Two decades dedicated as a Behavioral Scientist in a variety of settings, including academic, federal government, public health, and industry. Award-winning publisher of foundational research and recognized for research contributions.

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Supervises team of seasoned scientists responsible for executing, managing, and delivering client-focused research

  • Driving ongoing business expansion in both the U.S. FDA regulated sectors and international markets

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Craig Croce

Director, Sales & Client Relationships

Two decades experience in Sales and Operations at Fortune 500 company, Craig is known for his exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, enhancing business synergies and efficiencies.

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Pivotal in driving revenue growth, develop and maintain strategic communication with key decision makers
  • Network, research, and identify new opportunities with companies that align with ARAC’s core competencies

  • Work closely with Scientific Research Team to ensure seamless project execution

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Riley Wincheski, ABD

Statistical Analyst & Research Associate

Doctorate in Experimental Psychology (expected Spring 2025), specializing in Comparative Psychology and Behavioral Biology, with a quantitative concentration and a graduate certificate in Neuroscience.

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Execute and support statistical analyses, research studies, and scientific engagements to deliver quality insights, manage product inventory, and deliver high-quality reports.

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Liz DeMartini, BSN, RN

Lead Clinical Researcher

Has managed pivotal roles in overseeing daily operations, administering nursing staff, and managing nursing care delivery systems. Liz ensures the provision of top-notch participant care, on-site facility trainings and clinical assessments, with a specific focus on facilitating and monitoring the compliance operations.

 

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Adverse event monitoring, clinical data collection, compliance quality assurance, and maintaining participant safety

  • Oversee compliance to IRB-approved study protocols

  • Lead research site trainings at study facilities

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Allison Shumate

Chief Marketing Officer

Dynamic team leader in developing innovative solutions for complex needs. Proven track record in strategic lead generation, event planning, corporate branding, and multimedia production.

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Visionary and strategic leader to expand market presence through innovative strategies to drive revenue, oversee the planning and implementation of multi-channel marketing campaigns aligned with company’s goals

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Dr. Ian Jones

Lead Statistician

Specialties in theoretical and quantitative psychology, and person-centered data analysis techniques. Broad human-focused disciplines including social, personality, developmental, and cognitive psychology.

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Pivotal in designing and implementing advanced statistical methodologies ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data processes, and delivering insights that empower strategic decision-making

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Tal Shahar

Survey Methodologist

Decade of diverse marketing research experience, having conducted hundreds of projects for companies worldwide, ranging from small firms to major enterprises. Driven by client satisfaction and passion to make a difference.

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Survey design & development, sampling & data collection, data reporting, quality assurance, research & development

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Amanda Cox, BSN, RN

Clinical Research Nurse

Amanda is a highly experienced nurse with 18 years of diverse expertise in the healthcare field. She is a proud graduate of Baker University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Passionate about patient connection, transparency in science, and preventive medicine, she strives to promote holistic health beyond the absence of disease.

 

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Global research oversight, adverse event monitoring, clinical data collection, compliance quality assurance, research oversight, and maintaining participant safety

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Samuel C. Hampsher-Monk

VP, Global Regulatory Strategy
& Client Operations

Expertise leading international research on cannabis, tobacco, and nicotine regulation for diverse clients, including government agencies and research institutions. A published expert in policy analysis and public health, he has authored numerous academic works, including Clearing the Air on E-Cigarettes and Harm Reduction (2024).

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Strategic planning, revenue generation, oversight of business development and sales operations, customer relationship management, reporting and analysis

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Dr. Kiri Stauch

Behavioral Scientist

Rigorous research focused on comparative psychology and toxicology, using a combination of behavioral, biological, and self-report measures. Undergraduate academia professor.

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Design and conduct rigorous behavioral research studies, analyze and interpret data, develop evidence-based research strategies

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Kenton Harrell

Project & Logistics Manager

Primary supports CRO + coordinates various study activities, (i.e., product disposal, large project management, scheduling, and tracking study milestones.

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Ensures seamless execution of research projects and logistical operations

  • Thorough research analysis, compliance oversight, support cross-functional teams, and coordinates operational needs to ensure smooth operations

MICHAEL COX

Michael Cox, Paramedic

Clinical Research Associate

Michael is a dedicated paramedic with extensive experience in high-pressure environments, combining quick decision-making with a passion for research and innovation. As part of ARAC’s Clinical Research Team, Michael leads clinical data generation, research studies, remote monitoring, and ethical compliance contributing to the development of meaningful healthcare solutions.

 

PRIMARY ROLES:

  • Oversee ethical research practices, manage critical data, adverse event monitoring, clinical data collection, and compliance quality assurance

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