Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), one of the world’s leading oncology research organizations conducting community-based clinical trials, is pleased to announce two leadership updates that reflect the organization’s continued growth and long-term commitment to advancing oncology research.
Krish Patel, MD, has been appointed executive director of Hematologic Cancer Research, expanding his current role as director of Lymphoma Research for SCRI. In his new position, Dr. Patel provides scientific and strategic leadership across SCRI’s hematologic cancer research portfolio, further strengthening the organization’s work in blood cancers, cellular therapies, and related malignancies.
Since joining SCRI, Dr. Patel has brought deep expertise in hematologic malignancies and a strong track record of advancing innovative clinical trials. In his expanded role, he will continue to help shape SRCI’s research strategy, foster collaboration across the network, and support the development of impactful clinical research programs.
“Dr. Patel is a highly respected leader who has played a key role in advancing lymphoma research at SCRI,” said David Spigel, MD, president and chief medical officer for SCRI. “His expanded position further strengthens SCRI’s ability to grow collaborative hematologic research programs across our network that improve access to innovative therapies to patients who need them most.”
Dr. Patel is board certified in internal medicine, medical oncology, and hematology, and serves as a medical oncologist at SCRI Oncology Partners. To learn more about Dr. Patel, visit his bio on SCRI.com.
SCRI is also pleased to welcome Shaolin Paul, MBA, FCMA, as chief financial officer, where she will provide enterprise-wide financial leadership in support of SCRI’s mission, research priorities, and continued growth. In her role, Shaolin oversees financial strategy, planning, and performance, partnering closely with clinical and operational research leaders to ensure strong stewardship while enabling scientific innovation, trial execution, and strategic expansion across SCRI’s research network.
Shaolin brings more than 20 years of progressive finance and healthcare leadership experience, with deep expertise across oncology and research-driven healthcare systems. Her collaborative leadership style and strategic financial insight will be critical as SCRI continues to expand its research footprint, strengthen clinical trial capabilities, and accelerate progress for patients.
Most recently, Shaolin served as chief financial officer for Sarah Cannon Research Institute UK and assistant vice president, Cancer Services for HCA Healthcare UK, where she led financial strategy for large, multisite oncology and clinical research programs. In these roles, she helped guide capital investment decisions, supported clinical trial infrastructure, and ensured alignment between financial planning and long-term oncology strategy.
“Shaolin brings exceptional financial leadership and a deep understanding of oncology-driven healthcare systems,” said Dee Anna Smith, chief executive officer of SCRI. “Her experience, strategic mindset, and collaborative approach will be critical as SCRI continues to grow, invest in research infrastructure, and support our mission to advance cancer care.”
Shaolin holds a Global Master of Business Administration with Distinction from Bayes Business School and is a Fellow Chartered Management Accountant. To learn more about Shaolin, visit her bio on SCRI.com.