Meet Our Staff
Manager of Clinical Research – Jason Soltis, BS, CCRC
Jason received his undergraduate degree in Biological Science from The Ohio State University and started his work in the health care field as an optometric assistant in 1999. Jason began his clinical research experience working at The College of Optometry at OSU. Jason is very excited to be working with children, he has received his certification in clinical research, and is currently working towards completing a masters degree in business administration. Jason is a cheerful, diligent, and motivated person and his dedication to his work has made him an excellent addition to our team.
Research Quote: “Rewarding is the word that best describes what it is like to be working with children while contributing to the advancement of healthcare. It’s comforting to know that the studies we conduct have been carefully screened to have the best benefit to risk ratios and that the children who participate in our studies may come away with a level of protection they could not receive elsewhere.
Project Manager – Alycia Slaton, CCRC
Alycia began her healthcare career in pediatrics as a certified medical assistant. She has been with Senders Pediatrics since 1998 and has been a Certified Clinic Research Coordinator since 2002. Alycia is currently in the process of finally completing her lifelong goal of becoming a RN. Her attention to detail and ambitiousness make her a fantastic member of the research team.
Research Quote: "Research is such an exciting field. It’s great to know that we will contribute to the future health of children. Today and tomorrow’s children will receive better medications&vaccines and have the opportunity to receive the most advanced healthcare available."
Research Assistant - John Dannug, BS
John received his undergraduate degree in Integrated Health Studies from Kent State University. He joined our team in 2009 after completing an internship with a behavioral health research center that introduced him to this rewarding field.
Research Quote: “It’s exciting to know that you are part of the bigger picture in helping protect children. It’s amazing to think about how many life changing medications the world would not have it wasn’t for research.”
Research Assistant - Ben Chaney
Ben is a 2010 graduate from OSU with a B.S. in molecular genetics. He has performed research domestically and abroad (in Brazil). During the summer of 2010, Ben worked at a summer camp for special needs children and learned a great deal. Ben believes “children’s optimism and sense of wonder are qualities that everyone could benefit from maintaining”. Ben is excited to work at Senders Pediatrics Research because he enjoys the distinct relationship forged between research patients and the coordinator in a clinical setting. He is thrilled about participating in the process of approving essential vaccines. Ben has future plans of attending medical school.
Research Quote: “For a research environment, I have never experienced such a playful atmosphere! My day is made by teaching children about the most important and fascinating aspects of their elected studies. It is very rewarding to see a child undergo voluntary procedures in order to improve healthcare for children around the world.”
Research Assistant – Mary Coehrs, BS
Mary received her undergraduate degree in Biology from The Ohio State University and is currently working towards her Master’s degree in Public Health specializing in Epidemiology. She began her research career working at University Hospital’s Case Medical Center as an IRB Intern. She is eager to gain a greater knowledge of the clinical aspect of research and is looking forward to working with the rest of the Senders Pediatrics team.
Research Quote:“Research is a rewarding field that allows us to make great contributions in the advancement of medicine and quality of healthcare. I enjoy working in the field of research because it allows me to continuously learn, problem-solve and challenge myself in new ways.”
Program Assistant – Nicole Leppert
Nicole graduated from Ursuline College with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Throughout her career at Ursuline she enjoyed her research classes more than anything, and was even able to participate in a few small conferences. She is thrilled to get this opportunity to work in a Research setting and further her knowledge in an area that she wants to make a career.
Research Quote: “Research is a great field that has given us many vaccines/medications to improve healthcare. I am very excited to be able to work in this setting and contribute, even if in a small way, to children receiving the best care/protection possible.”