Afiqah Yusuf

Experienced scientist with a PhD in Psychiatry specializing in patient-reported outcomes (PRO), clinical outcomes assessment (COA), and implementation science. Skilled in developing and validating tools for evaluating patient-centric outcomes, I have a proven track record of collaborative work across functions, leading randomized controlled trials, and implementing strategies that incorporate measurement science into clinical development. With expertise in instrument development, data capture, statistical analyses, and evidence synthesis, I am seeking a role to utilize my strong analytical and communication skills to ensure that the patient voice remains central to drug development processes.

• Collaborated with team of 3-5 people in the multiple projects namely in designing and implementing a nationwide RCT that reached 80 families, in creating an open science database that has recruited 200+ participants (Quebec 1,000 Families), and in launching clinician training programs reaching 200+ clinicians internationally.
• Achieved a 50% increase in data accuracy and efficiency by introducing REDCap for data capture across all initiatives, streamlining the collection and management of patient-reported outcomes and clinical data in both clinical trials and observational studies.
• Reduced ethics approval turnaround time by 33% through proactive collaboration with ethics boards, ensuring clear communication of study objectives and patient-reported outcome measures in submissions and by streamlining the submission process for PRO-related studies.
• Enhanced compliance with ethical guidelines by developing a comprehensive ethics framework for the integration of patient-reported outcomes into studies, which was adopted by 8 different research/health institutions.
• Improved data security and participant consent processes by implementing a robust data management system using REDCap.

• Factors associated with resilience among children and youths with disability during the COVID-19 pandemic, PloS one, 17, 7, e0271229, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0271229
• Perceived utility of biological testing for autism spectrum disorder, Research in Developmental Disabilities, 100, 103605, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103605
• Adaptation and validation of the Genetic Counseling Outcome Scale for autism spectrum disorders and related conditions, Journal of Genetic Counseling, 00:1-14

Radio Interview
Quebec Ends Financial Support for Students in Part-Time French Language Courses – Quebec AM with Julia Caron, Quebec City, QC
Date: September 25, 2024
Discussed the implications of Quebec’s decision to end financial support for students in part-time French language courses, highlighting the impact on immigrant communities and their integration into Quebec society.

https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-87/clip/16098845

Newspaper Article
M. Legault veut-il vraiment nous intégrer au Québec? – La Presse, Montreal, QC
Date: September 20, 2024
Opinion piece addressing the challenges faced by immigrants in Quebec attending part-time French courses without financial assistance, highlighting gaps in the province's integration policies. 

https://www.lapresse.ca/dialogue/temoignages/2024-09-20/francisation-des-immigrants/m-legault-veut-il-vraiment-nous-integrer-au-quebec.php