Our research facility here at the Florida Institute for Clinical Research (FICR) has one mission: to better the healthcare industry not just in our community, but worldwide. The medical studies we conduct to detect, prevent, and treat various medical conditions help to improve the quality of life of those affected by these conditions. FICR is co-founded by Principal Investigator Humberto Cruz, D.O., and Research Director Maria Lopez. This dynamic duo has the experience of thousands of clinical trials between them. It’s no surprise that FICR is Orlando’s premier clinical research facility.
Principal Investigator- Humberto Cruz, D.O
Dr. Cruz is a board-certified family physician who received his undergraduate degree in biology from Indiana University Northwest and then pursued his medical degree at Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his internship at Chicago Osteopathic Hospitals & Medical Center before moving to Orlando in 1994 to complete his family practice residency program at Florida Hospital East.
In 1996 The Center for Family Medicine was opened by Dr. Cruz in Orlando. He is an accomplished and well-recognized principal investigator in the pharmaceutical industry. Dr. Cruz has served as Principal Investigator in over 1000 top enrolling clinical trials in the U.S.
Maria Lopez- Research Director
Since 1994, Ms. Lopez has been conducting clinical trials at FlCR. Her experience and attention to detail led her to be named Research Director in 2003. Maria oversees the Regulatory Department here and works closely with sponsors and IRBs to ensure the efficient and expeditious submission of all essential regulatory documents. She is CITI certified and a Certified Clinical Research Coordinator and a member of the Associates of the ACRP (Association of Clinical Research Professionals). Maria has been a part of over 1500 studies during her career, 1000 working at FICR.
Become a Part of Our Mission
Our mission to improve healthcare would not be possible without volunteers participating in clinical trials. As a participant, there are many potential benefits that go beyond advancing medicine. You may learn more about your condition, receive regular care from Dr. Cruz and his trained medical team, and have the chance to gain access to new therapies not available to the public. If you are interested in learning more about FICR’s available opportunities, call (407) 658-0966, or click here.
