At Nephrology Associates, our clinical research program is dedicated to advancing the care of patients with kidney disease through participation in innovative clinical trials.
Working alongside leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, our physicians and research team provide patients with opportunities to participate in clinical studies evaluating potential new therapies for a range of kidney-related conditions. Our research program combines the clinical expertise of experienced nephrologists with a dedicated research team focused on patient safety, thoughtful study execution, and a positive experience for every participant.
For patients and families, clinical research may provide an opportunity to contribute to the future of kidney care while receiving close monitoring from a team experienced in both nephrology and clinical research.
For physicians and referring providers, we aim to serve as a trusted research resource for patients who may qualify for clinical trials, while maintaining open communication and continuity with their existing healthcare team.
For sponsors and research partners, our program offers access to an established nephrology patient population, experienced investigators, dedicated research support, and a clinical environment designed to support high-quality study conduct.
Our goal is simple: to bring promising kidney research closer to the patients who may benefit from it, while helping advance the treatment of kidney disease for the future.
Theodore F. Saad, MD
Medical Director, Clinical Research
Dr. Theodore Saad is Medical Director of the clinical research program at Nephrology Associates, P.A., where he supports clinical trials focused on advancing treatment options for patients with kidney disease. His research experience includes the design, execution,
and publication of medical device trials, as well as participation in studies evaluating treatments for conditions such as IgA nephropathy, anemia, and diabetic kidney disease.
A nephrologist and interventional nephrologist, Dr. Saad has extensive expertise in kidney care and hemodialysis vascular access management. His work brings together clinical practice, physician education, and research, with an emphasis on translating scientific advances into meaningful improvements in patient care.
Dr. Saad completed medical school, internal medicine training, and nephrology training at the University of Pennsylvania. He subsequently served in the United States Air Force Medical Corps and as Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Texas Health
Science Center at San Antonio. He currently practices with Nephrology Associates, P.A. and holds clinical and academic leadership appointments with ChristianaCare and Thomas Jefferson University Sidney Kimmel Medical College.
He is a past president of the American Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology and has contributed nationally and internationally to the advancement of hemodialysis vascular access care through clinical practice, education, and research.
Nicole Davis, RT(R)
Director of Clinical Research
Nicole Davis serves as Director of Clinical Research for the clinical research program at Nephrology Associates, where she oversees the operational development and day-to-day management of the research program.
With a background in healthcare operations and clinical care, Nicole brings a practical, patient-centered approach to clinical research. Her responsibilities span study startup and implementation, sponsor and CRO collaboration, regulatory and operational readiness,
study budgeting, research systems, and coordination of clinical trial activities across the program.
Nicole works closely with investigators, research partners, and clinical teams to ensure studies are thoughtfully implemented and supported throughout their lifecycle. She is particularly focused on building efficient research processes that maintain high standards for quality while creating a positive experience for patients considering or participating in clinical trials.
As the research program continues to grow, Nicole is committed to strengthening partnerships with sponsors and research organizations and expanding opportunities for patients with kidney disease to participate in clinical research within their own community.