The Clinical Trials section in the Department of Surgery exists to streamline the process of applying for and executing clinical trials, whether investigator-initiated, extramurally funded or industry-sponsored. Spearheaded by Heather Thiesset, MPH, CCRP with oversight by Larry W Kraiss MD, the section provides assistance in applying for clinical trials, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and facilitates budget preparation/negotiation. The overall goal is to allow the faculty investigators to focus on the science and research question without being burdened by time-consuming administrative tasks.