Research professional joins the department to provide comprehensive support

Kristin Frenn, MPH, CCRP, recently joined the department as a Research Coordinator with the aim of supporting its research at a high level. Most recently in a similar position with the U’s Pediatrics Department, Frenn will play her role in several ways.

“My support for research projects could mean from their onset — developing protocols, assisting with literature reviews behind the studies, helping researchers develop a budget, whether the study is federally funded, or industry sponsored,” Frenn explained. “When the project has kicked off, my role is to keep the regulatory documents up to date — everything related to consent forms and approvals needed by the University – ensuring that we’re behaving ethically when interacting with study participants and making sure we’re collecting the approved data for the study.”

Frenn (pictured at left) has been in research for some time. “Prior to this role, I worked in Pediatrics with the Institute for Child Development, and I also worked at local children’s hospitals,” she said. “This is my first time working primarily with adults.”

Research being done by the Neurosurgery Department is exciting to Frenn. “There are many studies that have the potential of having a high impact on patients,” she said. “Some of them are looking at pain reduction or wearable devices or different surgical interventions. There are several faculty members with many projects and lots of ideas. As a one-woman show, it’s kind of challenging.”

Frenn is currently working on projects with Department Head Clark C Chen, MD, PhD, and Associate Professor Michael C Park, MD, PhD. She will also be working with the newest faculty member, Assistant Professor Logan Helland, MD.

A native of Wisconsin, Frenn came to the U of M for her undergraduate degree in child psychology and a Master’s in Public Health. She is also certified as a Clinical Research Professional through the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA).

When she has some spare time, Frenn likes to play soccer and spend time outdoors with her husband, Paul.