The Research Team consists of highly dedicated and knowledgeable clinical investigators and research staff that work directly with individuals with neuromuscular diseases to promote a better quality of life. Our objective is to run clinical trials safely, effectively, and acquire high-quality data while fostering a welcoming and enjoyable environment for our patients and their families. We work with patients from an array of NMD backgrounds, which include Duchenne/Becker Muscular Dystrophy (DMD/BMD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD). We also serve our local and global neuromuscular communities by providing education, awareness, and compassionate service.

Craig McDonald, M.D.

Craig McDonald, M.D.

Professor and Chair, Research Director

Erik Henricson, Ph.D.

Erik Henricson, Ph.D., M.P.H.

Associate Director for Clinical Research

Lisa Williams, M.D.

Lisa Williams, M.D.

Assistant Clinical Professor


Nanette Joyce, D.O.

Nanette Joyce, D.O., M.A.S.

Associate Clinical Professor

Erica Goude, M.S., C.C.R.P.

Erica Goude, M.S., C.C.R.P.

Research Manager

Rachel Baek, B.S., C.C.R.P.

Rachel Baek, B.S., C.C.R.P.

Clinical Research Supervisor


Alina Nicorici, B.S.

Alina Nicorici, B.S.

Research Kinesiologist

Lynea Kaethler, M.S.

Lynea Kaethler, M.S.

Senior Clinical Research Coordinator

Research Kinesiologist

Amanda Lopez, M.A.

Amanda Lopez, M.A.

Senior Clinical Research Coordinator

Research Kinesiologist


Karen Dhillon, B.S.

Karen Dhillon, B.S.

Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator

Scott Sekikawa, B.S.

Scott Sekikawa, B.S.

Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator