Samantha Mergen

Samantha is a research administrator with over 15 years of experience supporting research within the UW School of Medicine and Public Health. She began her career as a clinical research coordinator at the UW Carbone Cancer Center, working directly with patients and contributing to several clinical trials focused on advancing gastrointestinal cancer research. During her time in the Radiology and Medical Physics departments, Samantha gained extensive experience executing research agreements and providing research oversight. She partnered closely with investigators and institutional collaborators to build trusted relationships that advanced research with meaningful public impact and improved health outcomes.

As a cancer survivor and longtime advocate for cancer research, Samantha has served as a motivational speaker at events across academic, clinical, and community settings, sharing her lived experience to promote awareness, resilience, and equitable access to care. Her work is driven by a commitment to advancing health research that reduces disparities and ensures all individuals have the opportunity to achieve long-term health and well-being.