Elizabeth Roulette Baseler, MS, has devoted more than 46 years to advancing health care, with a focus on clinical trial management for cancer and infectious diseases. She has established herself as a leader in research and development, contributing significantly to global health initiatives, mentoring future professionals, and leaving an indelible mark on the field of clinical research. Ms. Baseler earned her Master of Science in administration and management from Hood College and her bachelor’s degree in biology from McDaniel College. Her academic journey laid a strong foundation for her career and reflected her lifelong passion for science and research. Growing up in a family of educators, she was inspired by her mother, a retired surgical nurse, and her father, a biology teacher and coach. Their encouragement fostered her inquisitive nature, commitment to excellence, and compassion for others.
Ms. Baseler began her career at Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., where she worked for more than four decades. Starting as a laboratory technician, she steadily advanced to become the directorate head of clinical monitoring for the research program directorate at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. In this leadership role, she was responsible for establishing clinical infrastructure and ensuring regulatory compliance for protocols conducted by the National Institutes of Health. Her work spanned both domestic and international projects, taking her to more than 30 countries to oversee the setup and management of clinical trials.
Among her many accomplishments, Ms. Baseler considers her work during the Ebola outbreak in West Africa one of the most impactful. From 2014 to 2016, she collaborated with ministries of health and local communities to establish clinical trials aimed at curbing the spread of the disease and identifying effective treatments. This effort involved navigating complex logistical and cultural challenges, showcasing her ability to lead under pressure and make meaningful contributions to global health.
Currently, Ms. Baseler serves as a senior clinical project manager with Manpower, where she supports the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research on special projects. She also acts as an independent senior subject matter expert with Leidos Corporation, contributing her expertise to strategic initiatives. Her areas of specialization include clinical trial management, cancer research, infectious diseases, strategic planning, and implementation, earning her widespread recognition as a leader in her field.
Ms. Baseler emphasizes the importance of collaboration and mentorship. She attributes her success to the support of her family, guidance from exceptional mentors, and her passion for science. She often advises aspiring professionals to network widely, explore diverse career pathways, and seek guidance from experienced colleagues. Her leadership philosophy also includes hiring individuals with expertise and perspectives that enrich the team and contribute to innovation. Ms. Baseler’s professional contributions extend beyond her immediate roles. She is an active member of organizations such as the Society of Clinical Research Associates, Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society, and the Association of Public Health. She has co-authored publications on Ebola virus disease therapeutics and COVID-19 treatments, further solidifying her reputation as a thought leader in health care research.
Civic engagement is another cornerstone of Ms. Baseler’s life. She mentors women leaders through the Woman to Woman Mentoring program and supports philanthropic organizations such as Women for Women International and Blessings in a Backpack. Her community involvement also includes contributions to the Ocean City Reef Foundation and Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research. Through these activities, she continues to empower others and extend her impact beyond the professional sphere.
In her personal life, Ms. Baseler cherishes her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. She is married to Dr. Michael Baseler, and together they have a blended family that includes children Patrick, Walter, Gregory, Michael, Joseph Crisp, Susan Crisp, Sarah Tully, and Jennifer Kurtz, as well as several grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, reading, learning about history, listening to music, and watching sports. Her love of travel has been a significant part of her life, and she aspires to document her extensive experiences for colleagues and loved ones.
Ms. Baseler plans to continue her part-time professional work while mentoring emerging leaders and participating in leadership groups. She hopes to share her experiences and knowledge with the next generation of health care professionals, ensuring that her legacy of dedication, innovation, and compassion endures. Balancing professional commitments with personal pursuits, she remains committed to inspiring others and advancing the field of health care. Ms. Baseler’s career is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of excellence in making a meaningful difference in the world.