Cyndi Knox Named Director of Clinical Research

Cyndi Knox Named Director of Clinical Research at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. She previously served in the roles of interim director, team lead supervisor and research nurse in the clinical research department.

(Baton Rouge, La.) Cyndi Knox, MBA, BSN, RN, OCN, CCRC, has been named director of clinical research, which includes oversight of clinical trials offered at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. In this role, Knox is charged with setting the overall direction and development of the Cancer Center’s clinical research program. This includes the design, planning and implementation of a portfolio of clinical research projects to help cancer patients and physicians more easily and effectively access leading-edge clinical trials. Additionally, Knox will take a leadership role in the Gulf South-Minority Based National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program, an initiative to help provide more Gulf South residents with advanced cancer treatments. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, only three percent of U.S. adults with cancer participate in clinical trials. At Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, all patients are evaluated for clinical trial eligibility, ensuring they have the choice, if qualified, to participate in research opportunities that may benefit their care. “One of the ways the Cancer Center has emerged as the Gulf South’s destination for cancer care is through a strong, robust clinical research program,” said Linda Lee, administrator, Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center. “And under Cyndi’s leadership, clinical research will continue to flourish, further expanding the number and types of trials available to patients throughout the region, allowing more patients to receive the most advanced care close to home.” Knox, who has been with the Cancer Center since 2008, previously served in the roles of interim director, team lead supervisor and research nurse in the clinical research department. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans and a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University. She also holds Oncology Certified Nurse and Certified Clinical Research Coordinator certifications. Knox is a member of the Association of Clinical Research Professionals, Oncology Nursing Society and is president-elect for the Baton Rouge Oncology Nursing Society.   Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is the most comprehensive cancer center in Louisiana offering patients the convenience of receiving high-quality, advanced care close to home.