POETIC RDMC works in collaboratively with POETIC physicians and scientists to develop high quality pre-clinical/early phase clinical trials and manage these studies. This center, at the heart of POETIC’s research program, integrates resources and expertise to translate research activities to the clinic in a streamlined process.
In addition to clinical research development, and trial design and management, the RDMC oversees all regulatory activities, develops customized data tools, and supports the analysis and publication of research. Furthermore, the RDMC plays a critical role in negotiating contracts with various entities and manages the consortium finances. Lastly, the RDMC plays an important role in teaching and mentoring trainees and young faculty in clinical research design and methods.
POETIC RDMC is located at Stanford University.
Key Personnel
Dr. Charles Gawad, MD, PhD
Dr. David Lyden, MD, PhD
Prof. Josef Kapelushnik, MD
Nathanael Gray, PhD
Peter Houghton, PhD
Sara Federico, MD
Shai Izraeli, MD
Norman Lacayo, MD
POETIC Medical Director
Norman Lacayo, MD received his BA in Biochemistry from UC Berkeley, and his MD from UC San Francisco School of Medicine (UCSF). He completed his residency in Pediatrics at UCSF and fellowship in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplantation at Stanford University. Dr. Lacayo is currently an Associate Professor of Pediatrics, a member of the Stanford Cancer Institute, and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford (LPCHS). At LPCHS he is the Co-Director of the Leukemia Program and Interim Oncology Section Leader. Dr. Lacayo's research focuses on the discovery and evaluation of new biomarkers in childhood acute leukemia. He actively collaborates with the Children's Oncology Group, led the ADVL0114 study using Decitabine for relapse and refractory leukemia, and is currently a member of the COG Myeloid Committee. Also participated in the St. Jude AML Consortium Trials AML02, AML08 and AML16. Dr. Lacayo became the first institutional PI for the Pediatric Oncology Experimental Therapies Investigational Consortium (POETIC) group in October 2015.
Ativ Zomet, PhD
POETIC Director of Research & Operations
Ativ Zomet, PhD is a scientific professional with a strong background in visual neuroscience, clinical research, behavioral science and cancer research. Holding a PhD from Tel Aviv University, Israel, Dr. Zomet worked as a visiting scholar at the University of California, Berkeley, before transitioning to a dynamic career in clinical research and program management.
Currently serving as POETIC Research Program Manager, Dr. Zomet guides a multidisciplinary team and manages early phase pediatric oncology consortium research, leading the growth and quality management of POETIC's research program. Prior to this, she led a clinical research coordinators team operating complex adults’ oncology interventional investigator and sponsor-initiated studies.
In the course of her career, Dr. Zomet has made significant contributions to neuroscience-based assessments and training, successfully overseeing multiple studies in the field. She has spearheaded the development of rehabilitative targeted brain training programs, aiming to enhance cognitive plasticity in those dealing with brain injury, visual impairments, and psychiatric disorders. Dr. Zomet's scientific contributions extend to numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at prestigious scientific meetings. As a leader and passionate researcher, Dr. Zomet demonstrates the link of academic rigor and impactful application, fostering innovative solutions and strategic growth to advance scientific knowledge for improved patient outcomes.
Jenna Dotson, BSc
Clinical Regulatory and Operations Manager, POETIC RDMC
Jennafer Dotson is a clinical research professional with over 20 years of experience spanning various therapeutic areas, including women's health, genetics, neurology, transplant, and oncology. Currently, she serves as the Clinical Regulatory and Operations Manager for the POETIC RDMC at Stanford University, where she oversees IRB activities and manages communication with regulatory agencies such as the FDA. Her extensive experience includes over a decade of research at Genentech in the Discovery Chemistry Department, where she contributed to the design, synthesis and development of novel small molecules and played a crucial role in multiple cross-functional projects, leading to six development candidates and four INDs.
She has authored and co-authored several publications and patents and her diverse expertise and commitment to advancing medical research make her a valuable asset in the clinical research field.
Tamar Shlapobersky-Afanzar, PhD
Clinical Data Specialist, POETIC RDMC
Tamar Shlapobersky-Afanzar is a Clinical Data Specialist with a strong background in neuroscience and a deep commitment to advancing pediatric oncology research. She earned her PhD in Biology from the Weizmann Institute of Science, where her research explored the effects of stress on attention and sleep. Her transition from basic science to clinical research has been driven by a desire to collaborate with purpose-driven teams and apply her passion for data accuracy and integrity.
At Stanford University, Tamar supported research efforts in the Departments of Neurosurgery and Pediatrics, where she led clinical data activities from protocol review through the design and development of clinical trial databases. Her work has helped streamline data collection and improve data quality across multi-site studies. Tamar effectively translates clinical requirements into scientific solutions. She brings experience in database design, clinical data review, regulatory compliance, and collaborative study coordination.
Tamar is known for her thoughtful, detail-oriented approach and strong commitment to teamwork. She is inspired by the opportunity to contribute to research that strives to improve outcomes for children and families affected by cancer.
Nayab Shahid, BA
Clinical Research Specialist, POETIC RDMC
Nayab Shahid is a Clinical Research Specialist at POETIC RDMC, where she serves as the primary site contact for POETIC studies. She holds a degree in Cell and Molecular Biology from Barnard College, where her passion for clinical research first took root. During college, she coordinated clinical trials and contributed to research publications at Russak Dermatology Clinic. She went on to deepen her expertise at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, working with the Radiology Molecular Imaging and Therapy Service.
Beyond her work in healthcare, Nayab is passionate about creative expression and mentorship. She contributed to the autobiography of one of New York City’s first water birth doulas, documenting her powerful story of resilience through Stage IV lymphoma. Nayab has also served as an adjunct lecturer in general chemistry and mentored college students. In her free time, she finds joy in poetry, playing the flute, and going on scenic hikes with her family.
Eileen Kim, PharmD, Bed
Clinical Research Associate, POETIC RDMC
Eileen Kim brings a diverse academic and clinical background to her work at POETIC RDMC. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from the University of Colorado Denver and a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of Toronto. She also holds an Honors Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Education from the University of Toronto. Dr. Kim began her career in Toronto, Canada, where she completed her pharmacy training and worked as a clinical pharmacist at Michael Garron Hospital, a downtown acute care hospital. She specialized in several areas, including orthopedics, general medicine, and cardiology.
Currently, Dr. Kim is a Clinical Research Associate at Stanford University’s POETIC RDMC, where she focuses on pediatric cancer research. As a dedicated healthcare professional, she is committed to advancing the field and contributing to the development of innovative treatments for childhood cancers through her work at POETIC RDMC.