We are pleased to announce that Dennis Onyeka Frank-Ito, PhD, has been appointed as the Director of the Clinical Research Unit (CRU), effective May 12, 2025.
Dr. Frank-Ito, a researcher and an associate professor at Duke Head and Neck Surgery & Communications (HNS&CS) department, brings a wealth of experience in research within our department, and his leadership will further strengthen and support the mission of the CRU. His deep commitment to clinical research and collaborative engagement makes him an outstanding choice for this role.
The CRU is responsible for the operational support and oversight of all clinical research involving human subjects in the Department of HNS&CS. The CRU ensures a core of skilled individuals to manage the clinical research activities, provide the necessary training for investigators, research coordinators, and other study personnel, and offer both financial and research practice support and oversight to ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, as well as institutional policies and procedures.
Additionally, the CRU ensures that clinical research is scientifically aligned with the interests of the faculty and the academic mission of the School of Medicine and the HNS&CS department, while being appropriately funded and financially transparent.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Frank-Ito on this well-deserved appointment.