Who We Are
SAFER Alliance is a collective of diverse, independently owned research sites that came together in 2020 to expand equity and representation in clinical research. Our founders identified critical gaps: the lack of diverse participant representation and the need for stronger outreach and education in underserved communities.
As a mission-driven site management organization, SAFER connects industry sponsors with trusted community-based sites while equipping those sites with the tools to succeed. Through shared infrastructure, professional training, governance participation, and culturally informed outreach, we strengthen site sustainability and ensure research reflects the populations it is meant to serve.
Why SAFER Exists
Clinical trial participation remains disproportionately low among underrepresented communities—leaving critical gaps in data, equity, and patient trust. SAFER Alliance was created to close those gaps.
By combining collaboration with comprehensive back-end support, we empower independent and minority-owned sites to meet industry standards, secure more trials, and deliver accurate, representative data. Our robust education programs raise awareness among both patients and providers, reshaping how the medical industry engages with underserved populations and advancing a more inclusive future in healthcare.
Founding Members
Elaine V. Palmer, MBA, BSN
Is a seasoned clinical research leader and nurse entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience spanning clinical operations, site management, and regulatory compliance. She is the founder of Innovative Clinical Research, established in 2014, and currently serves as Director of Clinical Operations and Site Owner at Pivotal Research Solutions in Conyers, Georgia. In this role, she oversees study activities, manages budgets and contracts, and leads a team of clinicians to deliver high-quality, inclusive research.
Elaine began her career as a trauma nurse and research nurse at Emory University Hospital. Her expertise includes inspection readiness, clinical trial leadership, and project management. She is also a vocal advocate for diversity in clinical trials, emphasizing the importance of building long-term relationships with underrepresented communities and ensuring equitable access to research.
Elaine holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Stroudsburg University and an MBA from Walden University. She is a member of the Society of Clinical Research Associates and the Site Owners Collaboration network, where she continues to champion inclusive research practices and support emerging professionals in the field.
Jay Pitts
Is the Founder, President, and CEO of ClinCept, LLC, a clinical research organization dedicated to delivering high-quality clinical trials to communities across the Southeastern United States. With over two decades of experience in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and medical research, Jay brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the field.
Holding a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Jay has cultivated a career marked by a commitment to community engagement and education. He actively participates in health fairs, speaks to support groups, and collaborates with hospitals, clinics, and physician practices to promote the importance of clinical research.
Jay’s vision extends beyond traditional research paradigms; he aims to integrate medical research with healthy lifestyles, inspiring others to do the same. As a dedicated Clinical Research Associate (CRA), he possesses extensive knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), FDA regulations, and the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring the safety of human subjects and the integrity of clinical trial data.
Under his leadership, SAFER has become a trusted resource, emphasizing the critical importance of inclusive research and striving to make clinical trials accessible and beneficial to underrepresented communities.
Iradis D. Leal, ACRP-CP, CCRC
Is a seasoned clinical research professional with over a decade of experience in the field. Based in Miami, Florida, she has held roles such as Contract Clinical Research Associate at International Dermatology Research, Inc., and has been involved in various clinical trials, including those focusing on respiratory therapies.
Iradis holds dual certifications from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP): the Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) and the ACRP Certified Professional (ACRP-CP), demonstrating her comprehensive expertise in clinical trial coordination and management.
Her professional background includes leadership positions, such as serving as a manager for Integra Wellness Research Solutions, LLC . Ms. Leal is recognized for her commitment to ethical research practices and her contributions to advancing clinical research methodologies.
Participating SAFER Alliance Sites
