This episode examines how the clinical trial industry’s expectations at the start of the year evolved under real-world pressures, from AI adoption to geopolitical and regional complexities, and the implications for trial operations moving forward.
About the Episode
In this episode of Trial Trends, host Libbi Rickenbacher sits down with Jonathan Pritchard, Director of Product Growth and Market Strategy, to reflect on how the clinical trial industry’s expectations at the start of the year evolved under real-world pressure.
Through candid conversation, Libbi and Jonathan explore the shift from early optimism — from rapid AI adoption to assumptions of smooth global execution — to end-of-year pragmatism and disciplined execution. They discuss how budget pressures, operational realities, and geopolitical complexity reshaped trial design, planning, and decision-making.
The episode also examines the journey of AI in clinical trials, moving from broad hype to targeted, value-driven use cases, and considers the lessons this holds for forecasting, scenario planning, and operational insight. Alongside this, they highlight how regulatory divergence and regional challenges quietly but profoundly impacted trial operations, forcing teams to rethink sourcing, country selection, and contingency planning.
Ultimately, this conversation offers a practical, honest look at what changed, what held up, and what surprised the industry — with clear takeaways for teams planning trials in the year ahead.
VP, Marketing and Partnerships
Libbi Rickenbacher, Sr. Director of Product Strategy and Partnerships, has over 15 years of experience in the field of life sciences and is an e-clinical RTSM solutions subject matter expert. Her experience lies in building and managing accounts, clients, and strategic initiatives. She holds a BA in both Neuroscience and Psychology and a Doctorate (PhD) in Neuroscience.
Director, Product Growth & Market Strategy
Jonathan has 15 years of life sciences experience; initially focusing on the creation and delivery of customized software for Cardio-respiratory devices used in phase 1-3 clinical trials before moving on to the management of Investigator training, Learning management systems and eCOA solutions.
Following 7 years of operational experience, he transitioned into business development, supporting customers in implementing Cardio-respiratory diagnostics solutions for global clinical trials, Biometrics and Statistical programming challenges including adaptive trial design as well as full service CRO solutions in the rare disease and oncology therapy areas. He is passionate about using technology to improve patient engagement with clinical trials and helping sponsors to make faster, smarter decisions for their clinical studies.