CRC will attend CNS Summit 2026, November 1-4 at Encore Boston Harbor. The event brings together clinical research leaders to exchange perspectives on CNS drug development and discuss the questions shaping upcoming programs.
There’s a lot for your team to weigh when planning a CNS study, including what kind of support you need from a CRO partner. CRC has spent 20 years focused exclusively on CNS research, building experience our teams can draw on to bring informed recommendations and take ownership as challenges arise.
Whether you’re planning an upcoming study, evaluating CRO partners, or looking for additional clinical and scientific expertise, our team welcomes the opportunity to hear about your priorities and discuss what would be useful to your team.
Meet the CRC Team at CNS Summit
Tom Zoda, Ph.D.
Dr. Zoda brings 30+ years of CNS clinical research experience across operations, business development, and executive leadership. He has overseen global, multi-center trials in schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, insomnia, anxiety, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy, and previously held leadership roles at Apex Innovative Sciences, CenExel, Syneos Health, and PPD.
Thomas Hochadel, Pharm.D.
Dr. Hochadel has 30+ years of experience across Phase I-IV clinical trials, including 75+ Phase I studies and 100+ later-phase trials in CNS indications such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, ADHD, and schizophrenia. His work includes specialized pharmacology studies and leadership of multiple IND submissions.
Jason Casarella, MBA
Mr. Casarella brings nearly 30 years of drug development experience, advancing from Clinical Research Assistant to executive leadership. He has built and led high-performing commercial teams and established strong partnerships across small, midsize, and large organizations.
Jim Free
Mr. Free has 20+ years of experience building specialized site networks for complex indications, including agitation in dementia, Rett syndrome, anxiety, and treatment-resistant depression. He has led successful programs and supported multiple IND, NDA, and ANDA submissions.
Brandy Isaacks
Ms. Isaacks brings over 20 years of CRO and site-side clinical research experience in the CNS space. Her experience spans roles in global project management, clinical operations, and client services coupled with her deep expertise in clinical assessment further support her ability to work closely with clients and project teams to execute complex CNS studies strategically and within study timelines.
Annie Speno
Ms. Speno is an industry leader with more than 15 years of experience and possesses extensive knowledge in the clinical trials industry, including sponsor relations and working within the central nervous system sector.
Kevin Howell
Mr. Howell is a strategic business development leader with a proven ability to translate mission-focused leadership into impactful commercial results in clinical research. With deep operational knowledge of the drug development process, spanning preclinical strategy, regulatory engagement, and late-phase execution, along with a track record of building lasting client relationships and driving organizational success.
SCHEDULE A CONVERSATION
What is your team considering for its next CNS study? Complete the form below to arrange a conversation at CNS Summit about your development priorities and where CRC’s experience could be useful.
