Meet Our Team

Across our entire JCCT team, we are proud experts in our field, and together we share a passion for excellence in clinical research.

Since 2005, we‘ve been helping to continuously advance modern medicine through scientific disease prevention while raising the standards of clinical research. We know the work we do in pharmaceutical research and drug/vaccine development makes a difference in the world by improving health and well-being for patients across the country – and we take that to heart.

JCCT Leaders

Dan is a seasoned clinical research executive with 30 years of experience spanning hospitals, SMOs, and CROs. Known for building high-performing teams, he consistently delivers quality, service, and client satisfaction. Dan is recognized for his creative, strategic thinking and innovative approaches that drive success for pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies.

Daniel White

Chief Executive Officer

Vanessa has 25+ years in Clinical Research Network Operations, specializing in process scaling, operational excellence, and team leadership. Her expertise includes recruitment, compliance, project management, and sponsor/CRO collaboration. Known for streamlining operations, accelerating timelines, and enhancing quality, she excels at developing talent and building strong client and investigator relationships.

Vanessa Watson

Chief Operating Officer

Dr. Kreamer joined JCCT in Feb 2024 as a Principal Investigator. He has a BA in Biology from Northwestern Univ. and graduated medical school from UMKC. A board-certified emergency medicine physician, Dr. Kreamer practiced here In KC for 20 years after completing an internal medicine internship at the Mayo Clinic and an ER residency at Truman Med Center in KC. Most recently CMO at Mercy & Truth Medical Missions, he is enjoying his transition into clinical research and is grateful to be a part of our outstanding team.

Tom Kreamer, MD

Chief Medical Officer

A Principal or Sub-Investigator for over 20 years, Dr. Fierro has participated in over 200 clinical research studies. After getting his BEngSc (BME) from MIT in 1993, he earned his MD from the University of Kansas in 1998 and completed an Internal Medicine-Pediatrics internship in 2000. He has extensive experience overseeing trials for both small biotech startups and large Pharma in private and government sectors. He stands ready to tackle challenges brought by the changing trials landscape.

Carlos Fierro, MD

Chief Scientific Officer

Kyle Smith is the Vice President of Finance at JCCT, where he leverages a robust background in public accounting, corporate finance, and commercial strategy. With a proven record of driving financial performance and leading high-impact strategic initiatives, Kyle plays a critical role in supporting the company’s continued growth and operational excellence. His blend of analytical insight and collaborative leadership helps position JCCT for long-term success in the evolving clinical trial landscape.

Kyle Smith, CPA

Vice President, Finance

BIO Coming Soon!

Stefanie Hunter

Director of Recruitment

Heather began her professional career as an RN in the cardiac department. She found research when she began working PRN at a site. When JCCT opened in 2005, she had the opportunity to join the team. She obtained an MBA, and then an MSHS focused on Clinical Research Administration. The first lesson she learned in research is that there will always be more to learn. She’s looking forward to perpetually learning within the industry and to contributing to the growth and success of JCCT.

Heather Barker, BSN, RN, MSHS-CRA, MBA

Vice President, Business Operations

Kaitlyn is a clinical research quality professional with experience across operations, regulatory, training, study management, and pharmacy. Since 2016, she has built a comprehensive understanding of the research lifecycle and successfully led teams through multiple FDA inspections and sponsor audits. Known for her leadership and focus on quality, she drives compliance, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

Kaitlyn Needham

Sr. Manager of Quality Assurance

After receiving a BSN from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Monica began her career as an Orthopedic Nurse. She spent five years as a floor nurse, then transitioned into clinical research. Finding her passion, she has never looked back. At JCCT since 2005, Monica has held various positions here including Research Coordinator and Principal Clinical Data Manager before assuming her current role as Quality Manager. In her free time, you will find her swimming, e-biking or traveling the world!

Monica Atwood, RN, BSN

Vice President, Data Services

Investigators

Dr. Kreamer joined JCCT in Feb 2024 as a Principal Investigator. He has a BA in Biology from Northwestern Univ. and graduated medical school from UMKC. A board-certified emergency medicine physician, Dr. Kreamer practiced here In KC for 20 years after completing an internal medicine internship at the Mayo Clinic and an ER residency at Truman Med Center in KC. Most recently CMO at Mercy & Truth Medical Missions, he is enjoying his transition into clinical research and is grateful to be a part of our outstanding team.

Tom Kreamer, MD

Chief Medical Officer, JCCT

A Principal or Sub-Investigator for over 20 years, Dr. Fierro has participated in over 200 clinical research studies. After getting his BEngSc (BME) from MIT in 1993, he earned his MD from the University of Kansas in 1998 and completed an Internal Medicine-Pediatrics internship in 2000. He has extensive experience overseeing trials for both small biotech startups and large Pharma in private and government sectors. He stands ready to tackle challenges brought by the changing trials landscape.

Carlos Fierro, MD

Chief Scientific Officer, JCCT

Dr. Awad is board certified in nephrology and an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University Missouri-Kansas City. Conducting over 100 clinical trials, he has been involved in clinical research since 1999, focusing on diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease and end stage kidney failure. Dr. Awad has authored/co-authored several medical publications in peer reviewed journals and created the guidelines for primary care physicians on early detection and diagnosis of kidney disease.

Ahmed Awad, DO, FACP, FASN

Principal Investigator, CRC

As a Board-certified Endocrinologist, Dr. Mounla is dedicated to empowering his patients in managing diabetes, thyroid, and other endocrine disorders. He is thrilled to join the clinical research community and eager to contribute to advancements using his extensive experience in endocrinology to improve patient lives. He’s looking forward to creating positive outcomes by joining with JCCT to navigate and excel in managing endocrine health with cutting-edge research and compassionate care.

M Yaser Mounla, MD

Endocrinologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Dr. Vega, a Board-Certified Endocrinologist, founded the Houston Endocrinology Center in 2011, providing specialized care to 30,000+ patients. In addition to an active clinical practice, she’s been principal investigator at Juno Research for 10+ years, leading 100+ clinical trials in diabetes, hypertension & metabolic disease. She’s excited to continue advancing endocrine research as part of the JCCT network. Outside of work, Dr. Vega enjoys traveling, exercising, and time with her husband & children.

Damaris Vega, MD

Endocrinologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

BIO Coming Soon!

Rocio Harbison, MD

Endocrinologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Dr. Wilt, a board-certified cardiologist with an active practice, joined JCCT in 2025 as a sub-investigator and now serves as a principal investigator, bringing cardiovascular expertise to the team. A Kansas City native, he earned his degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in 2008 and completed dual residencies in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, followed by a Cardiology fellowship. He’s excited to advance his field through cutting-edge research and clinical trials.

Heath Wilt, DO

Cardiologist, Principal Investigator, Practicing Physician

BIO coming soon!

Syed Faisai Jafri, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Dr. Ahmed Saeed is a board-certified gastroenterologist serving Kansas and Missouri. He trained at Wayne State University – Henry Ford Hospital and completed advanced endoscopy training at Fox Chase Cancer Center. Specializing in GERD, IBD, obesity, and GI cancers, he is proficient in advanced therapeutic endoscopy. A fellow of the AGA, he is actively involved in research, education, and national training programs, providing expert care across the Kansas City metro area.

Ahmed Saeed, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

BIO coming soon!

Rishi Grewal, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Dr. Adam Tritsch, a University of Kansas School of Medicine graduate, completed his Gastroenterology fellowship at Brooke Army Medical Center. After 13 years in the military, he returned to Kansas City with his wife and two children. Combining clinical practice and research, he bridges scientific discovery with patient care, emphasizing evidence-based medicine and innovative treatments to advance healthcare.

Adam M. Tritsch, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Dr. Fadi Bdair is a board-certified gastroenterologist serving Kansas City metro. He trained at the University at Buffalo and completed advanced endoscopy at the prestigious Harvard Medical School/Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. He specializes in diseases of the pancreas and biliary tree, GERD, endoscopic bariatric interventions and complex endoscopic procedures. He has contributed many papers presentations and has a demonstrable track record in patient safety, leadership and innovation.

Fadi Bdair, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Brooke is a doctoral-prepared, board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and nurse educator who joined JCCT in 2025 as a lead Sub-Investigator. A nurse since 2006 and FNP since 2012, she has worked in clinical research since 2016, supporting 100+ Phase I–IV trials. Known for strategic thinking and streamlining processes, she applies her experience to drive efficiency and optimize patient outcomes.

Brooke Lutz, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC

Lead Sub-Investigator, JCCT

Lana joined Johnson County Clin-Trials as a sub-investigator in 2022 after seven years in Neurotrauma Critical Care. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner who graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing in 2021 and then began her journey into clinical research. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and dogs, traveling, and cheering on the Chiefs.

Lana Morrison, FNP-BC

Sub-Investigator, JCCT

JCCT Pharmacists

Jeremy joined the JCCT team in September 2022. He graduated pharmacy school from the University of Kansas in 2013. Prior to JCCT, he worked in retail pharmacies for 15 years with roles ranging from technician to pharmacy manager. Outside of work, Jeremy enjoys spending time with his wife and three dogs, playing pickleball and golf, and sampling the finest craft beer.

Jeremy Snyder, PharmD

Pharmacy Lead

Dina received her Bachelor of Pharmacy from the Lebanese International University and worked as a relief pharmacist for several years before joining the JCCT pharmacy team in 2019. She also has a certificate in immunization. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and working on getting her fashion design online degree.

Dina Abou Hammine, RPh

Pharmacist

Clinical Research Consultants (CRC) – A JCCT Company

Dr. Awad is board certified in nephrology and an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University Missouri-Kansas City. Conducting over 100 clinical trials, he has been involved in clinical research since 1999, focusing on diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease and end stage kidney failure. Dr. Awad has authored/co-authored several medical publications in peer reviewed journals and created the guidelines for primary care physicians on early detection and diagnosis of kidney disease.

Ahmed Awad, DO, FACP, FASN

Principal Investigator, CRC

Ameneh graduated from the UMKC School of Pharmacy in 1992 with top honors and awarded the Fulbright Scholarship three of her five years there. She spent 16 years as a hospital pharmacist at St. Luke’s Hospital, and as a consultant pharmacist in the KC area. Currently VP, Site Quality Control Manager at CRC, she has conducted Phase II-IV trials for diabetes, anemia, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease the past 14 years. She is humbled to be a part of novel research and drug development.

Ameneh Paziresh, RPH

VP, Site Quality Control Manager, CRC

Juno Research LLC (JUNO) – A JCCT Company

Dr. Vega, a Board-Certified Endocrinologist, founded the Houston Endocrinology Center in 2011, providing specialized care to 30,000+ patients. In addition to an active clinical practice, she’s been principal investigator at Juno Research for 10+ years, leading 100+ clinical trials in diabetes, hypertension & metabolic disease. She’s excited to continue advancing endocrine research as part of the JCCT network. Outside of work, Dr. Vega enjoys traveling, exercising, and time with her husband & children.

Damaris Vega, MD

Endocrinologist, Principal Investigator, Sub Investigator, Practicing Physician

BIO Coming Soon!

Rocio Harbison, MD

Endocrinologist, Principal Investigator, Sub Investigator, Practicing Physician

Affiliations

KC Diabetes & Endocrinology

As a Board-certified Endocrinologist, Dr. Mounla is dedicated to empowering his patients in managing diabetes, thyroid, and other endocrine disorders. He is thrilled to join the clinical research community and eager to contribute to advancements using his extensive experience in endocrinology to improve patient lives. He’s looking forward to creating positive outcomes by joining with JCCT to navigate and excel in managing endocrine health with cutting-edge research and compassionate care.

M Yaser Mounla, MD

Endocrinologist, Principal Investigator, Sub Investigator, Practicing Physician

NKC Health Gastroenterology

BIO coming soon!

Syed Faisai Jafri, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Dr. Ahmed Saeed is a board-certified gastroenterologist serving Kansas and Missouri. He trained at Wayne State University – Henry Ford Hospital and completed advanced endoscopy training at Fox Chase Cancer Center. Specializing in GERD, IBD, obesity, and GI cancers, he is proficient in advanced therapeutic endoscopy. A fellow of the AGA, he is actively involved in research, education, and national training programs, providing expert care across the Kansas City metro area.

Ahmed Saeed, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

BIO coming soon!

Rishi Grewal, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Dr. Adam Tritsch, a University of Kansas School of Medicine graduate, completed his Gastroenterology fellowship at Brooke Army Medical Center. After 13 years in the military, he returned to Kansas City with his wife and two children. Combining clinical practice and research, he bridges scientific discovery with patient care, emphasizing evidence-based medicine and innovative treatments to advance healthcare.

Adam M. Tritsch, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Dr. Fadi Bdair is a board-certified gastroenterologist serving Kansas City metro. He trained at the University at Buffalo and completed advanced endoscopy at the prestigious Harvard Medical School/Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. He specializes in diseases of the pancreas and biliary tree, GERD, endoscopic bariatric interventions and complex endoscopic procedures. He has contributed many papers presentations and has a demonstrable track record in patient safety, leadership and innovation.

Fadi Bdair, MD

Gastroenterologist, Principal Investigator, Sub-Investigator, Practicing Physician

Let’s Connect Today

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