Core Staff
Laura Sissons-Ross, Research Manager
Since joining the University of Washington in 1999, I have dedicated my career to clinical research, serving in various Research Coordinator roles, including Senior Research Coordinator in the Department of Neurology. My experience has given me tremendous respect for the critical role Research Coordinators play in ensuring the success of clinical trials and advancing patient-centered research.
I transitioned from research coordination to focus on research administration and operational support back in 2022. This shift has created opportunities for me to share my experience and mentor emerging research professionals, which I find especially rewarding.
When I am not working, I enjoy crafting, reading, and traveling.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work at UW and am excited to support the ongoing success and mission of C-LIFE.
James Kashima - Research Coordinator
I was born and raised in the Seattle area and attended the University of Washington, graduating with honors with a degree in Neurobiology. Before joining C-LIFE in early 2020, I was an AmeriCorps volunteer in New Jersey at a Federally Qualified Health Center helping run programs to promote healthy living.
As a coordinator with C-LIFE, I have the privilege of working closely with PIs to advance their research goals and expand our knowledge of liver disease, while also helping run clinical trials so future patients can live a better life. I truly appreciate working with our wonderful research volunteers who give up their time and, with clinical trials, their bodies so others may benefit.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and being outside! I love to try new recipes from around the world, and you can find me on the mountains in the summer and winter, and on the soccer field year-round.
Sabrina Omer - Research Coordinator
I am a Research Coordinator in the Division of Gastroenterology here at UW. I was born and raised in Toronto, Canada, and received my degree with honors from York University in Global Health. I have also completed my postgraduate certification in Regulatory Affairs in hopes to further my understanding of pharmaceutical development. I am passionate about innovation and collaboration for discovering new and creative solutions.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending my time exploring unfamiliar places and trying new activities, but ultimately, I spend most of my time at home with my cat. Being able to work directly with the PIs and patients to further our knowledge of liver diseases and improve care is what I value most with our work here. I am honored to be with UW working in C-LIFE with an amazing research team.
Shahrukh Yousuf - Research Coordinator
I started at C-LIFE during undergrad and have enjoyed every moment. Working with hepatologists and gastroenterologists on their research studies and industry-sponsored clinical trials has been an enriching and fulfilling experience. I look forward to contributing to clinical development and positively impacting society through patient outreach and education.
I was born and raised in Shoreline, WA. I graduated from UW in 2021 majoring in Public Health and Molecular Biology. Outside of work, I love bantering with family and friends. My hobbies include playing tennis and traveling. I am also a Seattle sports fan and love following games and storylines. Across the pond I support Arsenal. COYG.
I am honored to be a part of this team and look forward to advancing the mission at C-LIFE.
Shukiyah Samoun - Research Coordinator
I joined C-LIFE in October 2025 and have thoroughly enjoyed being part of such a welcoming and collaborative team. Over the years, I have worked in a variety of clinical research roles, from participant-facing positions to behind-the-scenes work at an Institutional Review Board (IRB). Throughout my experience, I have always been drawn to the people-centered side of research. One of my favorite aspects of my role is meeting participants, hearing their stories, and helping make their research experience as comfortable and positive as possible.
I help coordinate studies focused on liver disease, including MASLD/MASH, cirrhosis, and other hepatology-related conditions. I value the opportunity to continually learn from our outstanding physicians while contributing to research that may improve our understanding and care of patients living with liver disease.
Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, playing board games with family and friends, watching movies and anime with loved ones, and exploring new foods and cultures around the world.
I am grateful to be part of C-LIFE and excited to contribute to its mission of advancing liver health research.
Iris Rappin Benge - Research Coordinator
Born and raised in Olympia, Washington, I moved to Seattle to pursue my undergraduate studies at the University of Washington, graduating in 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. I am currently completing the final year of my Master of Public Health program in the UW Department of Health Systems and Population Health.
Throughout my undergraduate and graduate training, I have worked in a variety of research roles and developed a deep appreciation for the scientific process and its potential to improve lives through discovery and innovation.
Outside of work, I enjoy attending films at SIFF and the Grand Illusion Cinema, spending time at home with my cat, and taking ballet classes. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with C-LIFE and support the outstanding hepatology and liver health research being conducted at UW.