Advancing clinical research for a better community

Dr. Eduardo “Dusty” Luna, MD, is Board Certified in Diabetes, Metabolism, & Endocrinology. Dr. Luna earned his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University with a double major in Nutrition and Molecular Sciences. He continued on to achieve his medical degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center in 2013. Raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Dr.Luna realized his deep connection with his community and decided to return home to practice after school to be of service to his community members, where he became a beloved doctor. Dr. Luna’s patients say it best, “He is an amazing doctor. Dr. Luna is someone who listens to his patients and really cares for their well-being. I am so blessed and thankful that he helped me with my diabetes, and I now find myself very controlled. Thank you, Dr. Luna for everything.” After becoming board-certified and practicing Endocrinology for over ten years, Dr. Luna now devotes some time to clinical research, satisfying his insatiable thirst for knowledge and the desire to contribute to the future of pharmaceutical development. Dr. Luna’s office, Valley Diabetes & Endocrinology Comprehensive Center (VDECC), is in the same building as TVCR, making an easy experience for study participants. Dr. Luna has participated in numerous research studies on endocrine-related disease processes as well as studies in other therapeutic areas. When not practicing or participating in research, he travels the country giving lectures to other physicians on the newest and best therapies available to spread his knowledge outside of his community.

Preston is a registered nurse who earned his degree in 2021 from the University of Texas at Tyler. Preston is highly motivated by contributing to the community through the education he can provide patients about their disease process as well as the ability to connect patients with the best treatment options. While working in traditional medical settings, Preston noticed that patients are often underserved because of time and resource constraints. The clinical research setting is one in which these concerns can be addressed realistically. Patients are provided with the newest information while accessing cutting-edge therapies without a financial burden. In addition to his work in Weslaco, Preston has been working in clinical research in San Antonio since 2016, allowing him to perform various research roles on over 50 clinical research studies, gaining extensive experience in the field. When not managing clinical trials, Preston enjoys all forms of physical exercise and spending time with his 2 dogs, Max and Duke.

I have been in the service industry for over 20 years, but since joining the clinical research community, I have truly enjoyed working with patients and building relationships in a one-on-one setting. The opportunity to help individuals live their best lives by helping them with their healthcare needs is very rewarding. I enjoy spending time with my family and my two dogs. Puppy kisses can cure just about anything! My next goal in life is to learn Spanish.

Having a background in educational leadership, helping others reach their potential motivates me greatly. Throughout my career in education, I learned to understand the importance and value each person’s worldview brings to a team, and that these different viewpoints are essential to success. The opportunity to not only assist in the growth of my TVCR team, but the growth of the whole Weslaco community by providing new resources through clinical research is a driving force for me. I have many interests, but the top contenders are yoga, cooking, and reading. I achieved a master’s degree from University of Texas at San Antonio in educational leadership and an undergraduate degree in American studies emphasizing organizational culture.

I strive to contribute to my community using my science, education, and research knowledge. Combining science with participant education is deeply fulfilling, and I find the growth in health equity and community ownership within the research field inspiring. Patients who participate in research benefit because they are empowered (or it empowers patients) to take their health into their own hands. Witnessing this firsthand has affirmed my desire to stay in this field and maintain a community-centered approach to research. Patients drive our work and gain the most out of the process when they trust that we are professional, knowledgeable, and have their best interests in mind. I enjoy all things that help maintain a healthy lifestyle, but attending the farmers' market and hiking with my family are at the top of my list. I have a Master's in Public Health with an Epidemiology focus from The University of Texas Health Science Center School of Public Health at Houston.

I have always had a passion for learning and for helping people. I completed my undergraduate studies in biomedical science at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and earned a Master’s degree in Health Sciences with a concentration in Healthcare Administration in August 2024. My academic background sparked my interest in pursuing a job in clinical research, and I saw it as an opportunity to positively impact people’s lives in my community while also working to impact the future positively. Activities that I most enjoy are running and spending time with my family members, both human and animal.

I have always been passionate about the healthcare field, especially the technology and patient care side. I was exposed to clinical research while completing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Texas A&M University. I was intrigued by its positive impact on treating underserved communities. In the summer of 2024 I completed a Master of Science in Health Science with a concentration in Healthcare Administration at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. I feel driven to be a part of the clinical research process in advancing medical milestones. I find helping others achieve an improved quality of life is very satisfying. My educational goal is to work toward a PhD. When I am not studying, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family and pets.

I graduated with Honors from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley with a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Health Science. I first entered into clinical research while working in clinical operations with Janssen Research & Development, where I found my love of the field. I have always had a passion for patient care and enjoy being able to work with patients while also aiding in the research of new therapeutics. In my free time, I spend time with friends and family, play in local pool leagues, and fish South Texas waters.

I earned a bachelors of science degree in Biology from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Through my studies, my interest in the health care field developed and led me to clinical research. I look forward to experiencing firsthand the benefit that exposure to research can provide my community, and working in a clinical laboratory. In my free time, I enjoy staying active with physical strength training, but can also be found relaxing with a good book, savoring a cup of cucumber and mint tea with my cat on my lap. I have a long-time passion for art and dream of becoming the next van Gogh.

I earned my Bachelor of Science and Arts in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin in 2021 with the initial goal of pursuing a medical degree. However, my immersion in research redirected my ambitions towards further engagement in this field. Passionate about both the healthcare industry and scientific exploration, I found clinical research to be the perfect fusion of these interests. I obtain great satisfaction from fostering relationships within our community and contributing to the advancement of medical technologies and treatments. Clinical research offers a unique opportunity to impact not only individual health outcomes but also to expand support networks and access to resources within our community. Aside from my professional pursuits, I dedicate much of my personal time to activities such as running, working out, and reading.

I am passionate about helping people achieve good health outcomes. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Health from Texas A&M and am working towards my Clinical Medical Assistant Certification at UTRGV. While at Texas A&M, I was actively involved in community service, particularly in children's hospitals and organizations. This experience allowed me to support patients and their families and deepened my understanding of the human aspect of healthcare. It was a truly rewarding experience that solidified my desire to pursue a career in the medical field. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, going to the gym in the mornings, practicing yoga at the beach, and reading. These activities help me stay balanced and focused on my goals. Ultimately, I aspire to attend medical school, become an OBGYN, and give back to my community by practicing medicine in South Texas to improve access to healthcare and contribute to the well-being of others.

Dr. Jose Llinas-Cepeda specializes in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism. He is fellowship-trained in Endocrinology and double-board certified in Internal Medicine and Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism. He is a member of the American College of Physicians, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, and the Endocrine Society. He is fluent in English and Spanish. Dr. Llinas received his medical degree from Universidad del Norte in Barranquilla, Colombia. He conducted his internal medicine residency training at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and the JFK Medical Center/ VA Medical Center. He completed his Fellowship training in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism at the J. Maxwell McKenzie Fellowship Program at the University of Miami and Jackson Memorial Hospital. Dr. Llinas-Cepeda is certified by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists in Neck Ultrasonography (ECNU) and is a Fellow of the American College of Endocrinology (FACE)

Dr. Alejandro Campos, MD is board certified endocrinology, diabetes & metabolism and internal medicine specialist with over 18 years of experience. Dr. Campos earned his medical degree from the Universidad Del Norte in Barranquilla, Colombia. He then moved to the states where he completed his residency at New York Downtown Hospital in New York, NY and University Bridgeport Hospital in Bridgeport, CT. He then moved to Galveston, Texas for his fellowship at the University of Texas Medical Branch. He currently practices in Weslaco as a member of the Valley Diabetes Comprehensive Team and joined the clinic research team in 2022. Dr. Campos is a member of the American Diabetes Association, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, and Endocrine Society.

Benito Lopez is a Doctoral level board-certified Physician Associate who practices in Endocrinology with board-certified specializations in advanced diabetes management and obesity management. Benito is also an Advance Fracture Liaison Service Ambassador, where he emphasizes the importance of appropriate patient assessment, treatment initiation, medical follow-up, and care coordination for bone disorders. He currently works at the Valley Diabetes and Endocrinology Comprehensive Center in Edinburg, Texas. Benito joined our research team as a Sub-Investigator in January 2023 to find new ways to contribute to his community.

Mayra is a family nurse practitioner who has been providing patient-centered care in outpatient endocrinology for almost ten years. Along with her certification as a family nurse practitioner, she is also board-certified in advanced diabetes management and a diabetes care and education specialist. She completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston and her Master and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Texas Pan-American. She has also been part of numerous clinical research studies centered on diabetes care and medical management. In addition to her clinical work, Mayra is part of the Research Committee and the Planning Committee for the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES). She has been a member of several professional societies, including the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE), and ADCES. She has been a presenter and educator at various lectures, including virtual presentations. Mayra’s passion for educating and caring for patients living with diabetes extends beyond her professional commitments; she serves as the vice president of the South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association (STJDA), a non-profit organization that helps children living with diabetes in the Rio Grande Valley.

Pamela’s professional journey in nursing started at the University of Texas-Pan American, where she received a bachelor’s degree in Nursing in 1997 and a Master of Science Degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2002. She has always had a passion to provide medical care to persons with diabetes and she went on to earn the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist designation in 2005. In her pursuit to practice at the highest level of her profession, she went on to receive her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Texas-Health Science Center at Houston in 2012. She has served as a member of an RGV Diabetes Task Force and was appointed as Program Director at an American Diabetes Association recognized Diabetes Education Center. She has also served as faculty at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley Nursing Program in both the Bachelor and Master’s programs. Today, she is part of the dynamic team at Valley Diabetes and Endocrinology Comprehensive Center, where she is living her professional dream of providing comprehensive, compassionate care and education for persons living with diabetes. Pamela joined the research team in 2022 when TVCR opened its doors.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Fordham University in 2024. During my time as an undergraduate, I volunteered as a research assistant in several labs, sparking my passion for research. I am particularly interested in research regarding integrative behavioral health, which combines mental health counseling with primary healthcare to create a holistic treatment plan for patients. I am very committed to a person-centered approach with patients. Outside of work, I enjoy running, Pilates, and spending time with my dog, Cowboy.

As a University of Texas at San Antonio graduate with a bachelor's degree in psychology, I am excited to join the Texas Valley Clinical Research team. My passion for working in the healthcare field has been a driving force throughout my academic and professional journey. In addition to my educational background, I am intensely interested in volunteer work and giving back to the community. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, engaging in relaxing activities, and pursuing arts and crafts. I also love being outdoors and participating in activities such as playing basketball, running at parks, and rock climbing with friends. To stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle, I prioritize my physical and mental health by working out at least five times a week, preferably before work.I am dedicated to continuous learning and am eager to develop new skills and strategies to excel in this exciting new role. My background and experiences have prepared me to contribute effectively to the team and positively impact our patients' lives.