Nicole (Nikki) Shirkey Son, PhD
About Nicole (Nikki) Shirkey Son, PhD
Nicole (Nikki) Shirkey Son, PhD, is the Principal Preclinical Researcher at Boston Scientific, with extensive experience in preclinical development, regulatory affairs, and cell therapy.
Current Position at Boston Scientific
Nicole Shirkey Son, PhD, currently holds the position of Principal Preclinical Researcher at Boston Scientific. She started in this role in 2021 and is based in Arden Hills, MN. Her role involves overseeing preclinical research to support the development of new medical devices and therapeutic strategies, contributing to Boston Scientific's mission of advancing healthcare outcomes.
Previous Roles in Scientific Research
Before joining Boston Scientific, Nicole Shirkey Son worked at Luminary Therapeutics, Inc as a Principal Research Scientist from 2020 to 2021. Prior to that, she was a Scientist/Study Director at American Preclinical Services, LLC from 2018 to 2019. Her early career includes academic roles such as a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at St. Olaf College from 2014 to 2017, and a Teaching Specialist at the University of Minnesota from 2013 to 2014.
Educational Background
Nicole Shirkey Son completed her PhD in Neurobiology and Behavior at UC Irvine from 2005 to 2010. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Psychology from Concordia College, achieved between 2001 and 2005. Additionally, she has completed professional development courses including a Certificate of Completion in Understanding Clinical Research from Coursera and a Leadership & Management Development certificate from NYAS.
Academic and Research Experience
Nicole Shirkey Son has robust academic and research experience. She served at Columbia University Medical Center as a Postdoctoral Research Scientist from 2011 to 2013, and before that, she was a Graduate Student Researcher at the University of California, Irvine from 2005 to 2010. Her roles have consistently demonstrated her capacity for rigorous scientific inquiry and teaching.
Expertise in Preclinical Research and Development
Nicole Shirkey Son has extensive expertise in preclinical research and development, having served as Principal Investigator or Study Director on over 50 preclinical studies. Her work spans a variety of disease areas and therapeutic modalities. She is certified in Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), and has a proven track record in preclinical development and strategy, including regulatory affairs, cell therapy, and medical device product development.