Behind the research: Cate Davey

What does your role involve, and what does a typical day look like?

It’s a dynamic role – running from one thing to another. Each day is a mix of administration, study management and patient support.

I help assess patients on clinical trials – gathering documents, going through survey questions, and processing data.

We do a lot of preparation before appointments to help doctors who are juggling multiple trials and patients. We take responsibility for keeping them on track with the protocol so they can focus on patient care.

Because first of all, a trial participant is a person. Second, they’re part of a study. I make sure the doctor can focus on the clinical side, while I support the research side.

How did you become a Clinical Research Coordinator?

It wasn’t a straight line. I studied and worked in radiation therapy but also assisted with data and research management after graduating.

I’ve always been interested in the research side, but once you’re working clinically, you see less of it. This was a great opportunity to get back into that world.

What kinds of questions do you get from patients participating in a clinical trial?

Lots of logistical ones – where do I go, when do I come in, how many surveys, what happens to my data? Clinical questions like risks or side effects are answered by their doctor.

Once treatment starts, there’s also a lot of general chat – listening to concerns, linking patients in with support services and resources, for example dietitians.

Most of our trials aren’t high-risk – they’re focused on refining or de-escalating treatment. Still, patients want to know how others are going, whether results have been published. They often stay engaged in the research.

Is there a moment in your career that stands out to you?

Yes – the first patient on the TREMOR trial. He was determined to be the first in Australia to get this treatment.

After a few personal setbacks, we finally got him in as the first, just before the next patient. It was really satisfying to help make that happen and to see his persistence and enthusiasm pay off. We got to know him well during the process, and that long-term contact is something I really value.

What do you wish more people knew about clinical trials?

Patients in research projects often have better outcomes. They get extra attention – like a research coordinator making sure they get to appointments or connecting them to support services. They have more people advocating for them the whole way through. We’ve got their back.

Why are clinical trials important?

The biggest benefit isn’t just for the individual patient – it’s for every patient that comes after them. These trials contribute to the body of knowledge that improves care for everyone.