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.

Professor and Chair, Research Director

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

Associate Director for Clinical Research

Lisa Williams, M.D.

Assistant Clinical Professor


Maya Evans, M.D.

Associate Clinical Professor

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

Associate Clinical Professor

Daniel Herman, M.D., Ph.D.

Associate Clinical Professor


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

Research Manager

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

Senior Clinical Research Coordinator

Alina Nicorici, B.S.

Research Kinesiologist


Lynea Kaethler, M.S.

Clinical Research Coordinator

Research Kinesiologist

Amanda Lopez, M.A.

Clinical Research Coordinator

Research Kinesiologist

RJ Billena, B.S.

Clinical Research Coordinator


Sean Romeo, B.S.

Clinical Research Coordinator

Luke Waymire, B.A.

Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator

Karen Dhillon, B.S.

Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator


Scott Sekikawa, B.S.

Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator