Home / Navigating the World of Clinical Trials: An Interview with Dr. Rohit Katial
In the realm of clinical research, Dr. Rohit Katial’s journey is a testament to the unexpected paths that can lead to fulfilling careers. From a conventional medical background to the cutting-edge world of clinical trials, Dr. Katial shares his experiences, challenges, and the rewarding moments of his career.
Dr. Rohit Katial’s journey began in central Auckland, where he attended Auckland Grammar and later pursued his medical degree at the University of Auckland. After completing his studies and a clinical year in New Plymouth, he commenced his junior doctor years in Wellington. It was there, during his training in anesthetics, that the COVID-19 pandemic struck, prompting a significant career shift.
Dr. Katial explains, “About a year into the pandemic, I felt the hospital environment was not the right fit for me. As a student, I had signed up for a clinical trial but never had the opportunity to complete a study. While I was looking around for new opportunities, I contacted the team at NZCR and found they were indeed recruiting for another doctor.”
Unlike many who set out with a clear career goal, Dr. Katial admits he had no initial plans for a profession in clinical trials. “Most people fall into it and then find they really enjoy it, which is why they stay,” he says. After a few months, he realized his passion for clinical research and decided to make it his career.
In New Zealand, there is no specific education course for clinical trials. Dr. Katial notes, “You learn through experience and from people with years of expertise supervising you. You literally train on the job” His primary focus is on healthy volunteer studies, particularly first-in-human trials and novel medications. “Being a part of the process of bringing new medications to market, medications that could potentially save millions of lives, is incredibly rewarding” he says.
Dr. Katial also finds the revolutionary potential of gene editing studies, particularly fascinating and highlights a gene editing study he was involved in for a condition called hereditary angioedema. “Patients had intermittent crippling abdominal pain for years. We were testing the tolerance and efficacy of a potential new medication and found, that after just a single dose of a gene-editing drug, they were cured. It was life-changing for them and very rewarding to see.”
Dr. Katial acknowledges the challenges of clinical trials. Being the principal investigator for several first-in-human studies and participating in advancing gene editing studies comes with its own set of challenges.
A significant one is the unknown of new drug side effects. “NZCR specialises in Phase 1 trials which means we are testing potential novel therapeutics on people for the first time. Even though pharmaceutical companies continuously test for potential side effects throughout the preclinical development of the drug, it is an unknown as to how it might manifest in humans, and you can’t always predict what will happen.”
Dr. Katial recalls a study where some participants experienced unexpected psychiatric symptoms whilst taking the trial medication. The trial was immediately halted, and whilst the participants all recovered and despite thorough investigations, the cause remained unclear, highlighting the unpredictable nature of clinical trials.
“The extensive paperwork and documentation can also be a bit of a challenge, especially coming from a hospital background. But this is a crucial element of our work both for advancing medical discoveries and for ensuring participant safety”
One aspect of the job Dr Katial loves is the different people he meets, many of whom are motivated by a desire to contribute to science. Participants often enjoy the thorough medical checkups they receive, interactions with the staff, and the friendships that are often created during longer studies.
The future of clinical studies is looking bright. Dr. Katial sees promising developments in gene therapy and psychedelics niches. New Zealand is also developing expertise in respiratory, metabolic, and complex haematology studies, providing patients access to otherwise unavailable drugs.
The opportunities for a career in clinical research are extensive, requiring a broad range of skill sets from doctors, nurses, lab technicians, pharmacists, operations, IT, recruitment, and more. For those considering a career in clinical research, Dr. Katial emphasizes the growing opportunities in New Zealand. He recommends contacting HR departments or reaching out directly via email or LinkedIn to explore this viable career path.
Dr. Rohit Katial’s journey from a traditional medical background to the forefront of clinical research illustrates the dynamic and rewarding nature of this field. His insights and experiences offer valuable guidance for anyone considering a career in clinical trials.
