Genomic Medicine

Infrastructure - CGSU

Clinical Genomics Studies Unit

"The CGSU allows our team to plug into key clinical, financial and project management resources. Without it as a foundational element, much of what we do simply could not take place."  – Geoff Ginsburg

Mission: Our mission is to support innovative genomic clinical trials and discovery research from a foundation of operational excellence, while advancing genomic medicine and personalized care towards improved clinical diagnosis, management and treatment of the individual. We serve as an institutional resource across Duke departments and affiliates.

Meet the Management Team

Want to learn more about the IGSP Clinical Genomics Studies Unit? Feel free to contact the appropriate individual listed below depending upon your needs.

Geoffrey S. Ginsburg

Geoffrey Ginsburg, MD, PhD
CGSU Director
geoffrey.ginsburg@duke.edu

Christine Tobias

Christine Tobias, MPA
Director, IGSP Administration
christine.tobias@duke.edu

Tim Veldman

Tim Veldman, PhD
Director of Operations
tim.veldman@duke.edu

Judd Staples

Judd Staples, MBA
Director, Partnership Development
judd.staples@duke.edu

Thomas Burke

Thomas Burke, PhD
Director, Genomic Technology
and Systems Development
thomas.burke@duke.edu

Wendy Conklin

Wendy Conklin, MA
Manager, Finance & Contracts
wendy.conklin@duke.edu

About Us

The rapidly developing field of genomic medicine must undergo prospective validation in rigorous clinical trials to demonstrate accuracy and clinical utility. The IGSP Clinical Genomics Studies Unit (CGSU) provides support and infrastructure across the full continuum of genomics-based discovery and clinical development activities, including innovative clinical trial design, management, execution, and data handling and extraction.

The CGSU draws its strength from a solid foundation of building strategic and functional partnerships, establishing strong and effective operational structures, and fostering a creative and service-minded environment. Our collaborative work extends across Duke to several institutes and departments, including Duke Clinical Research Institute (DCRI), Duke Translational Medicine Institute (DTMI), Duke Clinical Research Unit (DCRU), Duke Cancer Institute (DCI), the Pratt School of Engineering, the School of Nursing, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, as well as beyond Duke to other academic institutions, government agencies, and industry organizations. The CGSU operational model relies on a multi-disciplinary team approach to clinical research development and clinical trial execution, bringing together some of Duke's top research faculty and physician-scientists, with our experienced managers, project leaders, and research administrators whose collective experience covers the functional spectrum:

  • Project Leadership and Program Management
  • Financial Management and Contract Administration
  • Clinical Operations and Trial Management
  • Data and eSystems Management
  • Sample Management and Biobanking
  • Commercial and Business Development

Discovery and Clinical Genomics Research Areas

Research Sponsors

CGSU research is supported by government agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD), the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the United States Air Force, as well as commercial entities and foundations.

CGSU Staff