At PSI, careers are built on unique journeys shaped by growth, opportunity, and collaboration. For Melanie, that journey began with a background as a zookeeper, working with animals like big cats and elephants, before transitioning to clinical research. Since joining PSI, she has embraced a dynamic environment where her skills in problem-solving and adaptability have driven success, including on-time trial delivery. Melanie’s story showcases the power of mentorship, professional development, and a collaborative culture in creating meaningful career paths.
Read Melanie’s story below to learn how she has grown within PSI, building meaningful relationships and contributing to clinical research initiatives that make a difference in the lives of patients worldwide.
Prior to my start in the industry, I spent 10 years as a zookeeper, working with everything from big cats to elephants and primates. While that may seem like an unusual path to PSI, the skills I developed—thinking on my feet, problem-solving, and managing unpredictable situations—have translated seamlessly into my work in clinical trials. I quickly learned that trials can be just as unpredictable as spunky lemurs or opinionated elephants, and I thrive in the dynamic environment PSI offers.
Support, Mentorship, and Growth
The most important contributor to my growth and success at PSI has been the people. I’ve been fortunate to work with colleagues who support my development and are always willing to teach me something new. Whether it’s learning their organizational methods or understanding the broader processes driving our work, every colleague has offered valuable insights. Although I’ve had some official mentors, the many unofficial mentors I’ve encountered have shaped my journey just as profoundly. Each of them has shared lessons learned through their own experiences, helping me grow both professionally and personally.
PSI has provided numerous opportunities for career growth, particularly through the Project Assistant and Project Coordinator mentorship programs. I’ve had the chance to experience both roles—trainee and trainer—and found great value in seeing how other people approach challenges. It has been a powerful reminder that there’s always something to learn from our colleagues’ perspectives. These programs have broadened my understanding and helped me develop key skills that I apply daily.
A Culture of Collaboration
PSI’s culture of teamwork and collaboration has been the cornerstone of my success here. I can always count on my teammates for support, advice, and insights when needed, and I strive to offer the same in return. This culture has created an environment where we all feel empowered to help one another succeed, fostering a strong sense of community.
At the heart of everything we do is the knowledge that our work makes a difference. There are always people who need new treatments, and the work we do each day contributes to that cause. The opportunity to improve someone’s life, even if in a small way, is what drives me to keep growing and thriving in my career.
My advice to anyone starting at PSI or entering the clinical research industry is to be open to learning. You never know where your next passion might come from—I certainly didn’t expect to find mine after a decade in the zoo field! Don’t be afraid to ask questions and lean on your colleagues for support. We’re all here to learn from each other and grow together.
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