Meet the Physicians of our Community Research Network: Part 1
Getting to Know the Brilliant Minds Behind Our Innovative Research Teams at New Jersey and New York
This is part one of our series to celebrate Clinical Trials Day on May 20th. We’re highlighting the physicians who have joined our Community Research Network in the past year.
These doctors bring their expertise, passion, and insights into our research efforts, providing access to clinical research as a care option. Today, we introduce you to eight incredible principal investigators from our Northern New Jersey and our New York (Hudson and Western New York) Districts whose work is making a significant impact in their respective therapeutic areas.
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Dr. Peter Ricketti
Mercer Allergy & Pulmonary Associates, LLC
Dr. Peter Ricketti joined our network in August of 2024 and has brought a wealth of research experience to our Team. He has conducted numerous studies at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine and the James A. Haley VA Medical Center. This research includes phase 2-phase 4 randomized trials on the efficacy of various treatments for conditions such as nasal congestion, obstructive sleep apnea, nasal polyposis, chronic idiopathic urticaria, COPD, asthma, and peanut allergy. His extensive research portfolio reflects his commitment to advancing treatment options and improving results.
Dr. Ricketti is known for his collaborative approach, often working with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive treatment for his patients. He has published numerous articles, contributing to the ongoing dialogue in allergy and immunology.
Dr. Ricketti's dedication to his patients is evident in his personalized approach to care. He takes the time to understand each patient's unique needs and circumstances, developing tailored treatment plans that address their specific conditions. His compassionate approach and innovative research involvement make him a valuable asset to our Team in our Northern New Jersey District. Just as he works with his patients to find the right treatment options for them, he also works with our research experts to find the right trials for his practice.
"…To me, I think the most significant challenge you're in practice day in and day out—you don't want to overburden the staff…The staff is already working very diligently in practice, and now you're implementing clinical research into it…But ultimately we really care about the patient themselves in terms of their overall health and well-being.
At the end of the day, we're all focusing on the same goal here, whether you are doing private practice, in a community healthcare center, or doing clinical research. The goal is to improve the health and well-being of the patients—by having innovative treatments on hand, we'll be able to accomplish that." - Dr. Peter Ricketti
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Dr. Anthony Ricketti
Mercer Allergy & Pulmonary Associates, LLC
Dr. Anthony Ricketti, who works with Dr. Peter Ricketti and was also onboarded in August 2024, is an experienced allergist-immunologist and pulmonary medicine specialist. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Hahnemann Medical College and completed his residency in internal medicine at the Cleveland Clinic. His fellowship training in allergy and immunology along with pulmonary medicine at Northwestern University School of Medicine has propelled him into a distinguished career.
Dr. Ricketti is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Seton Hall University and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at Rutgers University. He is a four-time recipient of the Best Attending Teacher award, showcasing his drive for education and mentorship. Dr. Ricketti is also certified by several prestigious boards, including the American Board of Internal Medicine, Allergy & Immunology, Pulmonary Medicine, and Critical Care.
His research interests are diverse, ranging from asthma and COPD to interstitial lung disease and allergic rhinitis. He has been involved in numerous publications, examining the effectiveness of new treatments and therapies for respiratory conditions. His work has contributed to advancements in the field, improving the quality of life for many patients.
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Dr. Mitul Patel
Crystal Run Healthcare
Dr. Mitul Patel joined our Site Partnership Network early last year. His journey in medicine is driven by his motivation to help others and his love for continuous learning. He is involved in multiple clinical trials, focusing on the efficacy and safety of treatments for atrial fibrillation, elevated blood pressure, and hypertension. His clinical interests include heart failure, medical management of coronary artery disease, and preventative medicine. Dr. Patel enjoys the collaborative nature of cardiovascular medicine, working with our research Team to provide individualized care.
He believes in connecting with patients personally, understanding their unique circumstances, and involving family members throughout the process. His focus on patient-centered care ensures that each individual receives tailored treatment.
“I enjoy learning and applying the new research and technologies available to provide effective and efficient care. I find the field of cardiovascular medicine rewarding, I am able to help patients improve their quality of life as well as providing appropriate education and guidance.” -Dr. Mitul Patel
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Dr. Robert Klein
Impact Medical
Dr. Robert Klein is a seasoned pediatrician and allergist-immunologist with an impressive medical background. He received his undergraduate degree from New York University and his M.D. from New York Medical College. After completing his residency in pediatrics at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York, Dr. Klein served as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps. He further honed his practice with a fellowship in allergy immunology at New York-Columbia Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, where he currently holds a faculty appointment as Assistant Clinical Professor.
Dr. Klein's professional affiliations are a testament to his commitment to the field. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and the American Academy of Pediatrics. His leadership roles include serving as President of the New Jersey Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Society, and he is currently a subject matter content editor for Elsevier Healthcare publishers. He specializes in treating adults and children with chronic sinusitis, asthma, chronic hives, food allergies, and allergic skin disorders. Dr. Klein has been instrumental in shaping the future of allergy and immunology through his clinical practice, contributing to numerous publications and fostering collaboration among other physicians.
In addition to his clinical and research work, Dr. Klein is a member of various organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Allergy, and the Asthma and Immunology Society.
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Dr. Priya Rimal
North Hudson Community Action Corporation
Dr. Priya Rimal joined our network in March 2024. She is the Medical Director of Adult Internal Medicine at North Hudson Community Action Corporation. With over six years of experience in endocrinology and internal medicine, Dr. Rimal is committed to providing care and education to patients in underserved communities. Her goal is to bridge the gap between clinicians, researchers, administrators, and patients, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances health outcomes. Her dedication to service is exemplified by her proactive approach to addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access.
Originally from Nepal, Dr. Rimal came to the United States in 2018 as a diabetes and metabolism fellow at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Chicago. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she volunteered as a telemedicine doctor for a medical provider in Nepal, showcasing her support for patients across borders. Dr. Rimal has conducted research in gastroenterology and quality of life improvement and has authored multiple papers. Her compassionate approach ensures that patients receive not only medical treatment but also education and support. Moreover, Dr. Rimal is actively involved in community outreach programs, promoting awareness and preventive measures for chronic diseases.
"The goal remains to help the patients. We see patients who, very often, really struggle to get the standard of care, so my intent is to help my patients get the best care out there." - Dr. Priya Rimal
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Our mission is to transform the experience of finding, choosing, and participating in clinical research—these physicians are helping make that mission a reality at each of their practices. With them actively engaging with patients and collaborating with our embedded research experts, we’re expanding research access across the country. Stay tuned for our next blog where we’re highlighting our investigators in our Philadelphia and Western Kentucky Districts!