Christy Kelln
Chief Operating Officer
Christy Kelln is the Chief Operating Officer of NextStage Clinical Research. Christy joined NCR in 2023 bringing two decades of clinical research experience to the organization. Christy oversees all clinical operations including regulatory, patient recruitment, physician engagement, training, project management, feasibility, and site integration. Prior to leading NCR’s operations team, Christy was at the helm of Care Access overseeing a global site network.
Her progressive leadership experience touts growing organizations time and time again. Doubling the number of sites and employees during her time at Synexus and years later again at Care Access, Christy has demonstrated her ability to build teams and scaleup.
Christy began her career in clinical research as a clinical research assistant rising through the ranks of research learning as a coordinator, site manager, region director, and vice president. Christy’s leadership is rooted in experience. Her ability to build and guide teams through growth while maintaining the highest quality standards are what sets her apart.
Christy lives in Arizona with her husband, daughter, and two dogs. Christy is an avid reader and world traveler.
"Patients deserve to have access to innovation! Our NCR worldwide team is committed to serving patients and physicians alike, providing solutions that deliver results through trust, transparency and dedication to those who need it most."
Ned Schwing
Co-Founder & Executive Chairman
NextStage Clinical Research
“I’m extremely excited to help collect data to advance medical treatments for future patients"
NextStage Clinical Research Patient
"NCR addresses an unmet need for busy physician practices like mine. We have a large practice, but do not have the resources to do meaningful clinical research to provide innovative solutions to patients across the Central Texas region."
Dr. Buck Cross
Managing Partner
Waco Cardiology Associates
"Next Stage clinical research has assembled an amazing team that has helped my patients and allowed me to collect accurate and valuable data."
Dr. Brian Chalkin
Orthopedic Surgeon
The Orthopaedic Center
“The study team has made the process simple and easy. I’d be glad to do this again"
NextStage Clinical Research Patient
"NextStage Clinical Research has engaged PIs who are not only world class surgeons, with very busy clinical practices, but they are best in class people who truly care. This is why you are different and this is why we will bring innovation to market faster."
Chief Medical Officer
Biotech Company
“Engaging in the study has helped in my recovery"
NextStage Clinical Research Patient