Our Team
Our leadership team brings decades of combined experience in clinical research, patient care, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence. Together, we’re committed to advancing healthcare through integrity, innovation, and compassion.
Mr. Daravan Rath, PharmD
Site Director
Bio
Daravan Rath is the Site Director of Apex Clinical Research, where he leads the strategic vision, operational oversight, and growth of the organization. With a professional background as a pharmacist and experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Daravan brings a unique perspective to clinical trial execution—combining clinical insight with business leadership. His commitment to operational excellence and quality performance has positioned Apex as a trusted research partner for sponsors and CROs.
Though he entered clinical research through site ownership, Daravan quickly established himself as a hands-on leader, building a high-performing team, driving recruitment success, and ensuring regulatory compliance across diverse therapeutic areas. His vision continues to shape Apex Clinical Research as a forward-thinking site focused on innovation, integrity, and patient-centered research.
Dr. Patrick Yassini, MD
Medical Director & Principal Investigator
Bio
Dr. Patrick Yassini serves as the Principal Investigator and Medical Director at Apex Clinical Research, where he brings over 25 years of clinical experience and a strong track record in clinical trial execution. As a dual board-certified physician in family medicine and integrative holistic medicine, Dr. Yassini offers a unique blend of traditional clinical care and forward-thinking research leadership.
Dr. Yassini’s experience spans multiple high-enrolling studies across therapeutic areas such as vaccines, obesity, respiratory, neurology, and dermatology. He is deeply involved in protocol execution, subject safety, and data quality, maintaining a hands-on presence throughout the lifecycle of each study. His clinical acumen, responsiveness to sponsor needs, and ability to engage diverse patient populations have earned Apex recognition as a preferred site among CROs and sponsors.
Widely respected in the clinical research and medical communities, Dr. Yassini is known for his integrity, consistency, and results-driven leadership. He is frequently approached by CROs and sponsors for new study opportunities, a reflection of his exceptional reputation and longstanding industry relationships.
In addition to his research work, Dr. Yassini leads a thriving private medical practice focused on integrative and preventive health. His clinic blends conventional primary care with evidence-based holistic therapies, including bioidentical hormone therapy, IV nutrient support, lifestyle optimization, and regenerative medicine. This unique model not only enhances patient care but also aligns closely with his mission to advance proactive, patient-centered health outcomes—both in practice and through research.
Dr. Edward C. Federman, MD
Principal Investigator
Bio
Dr. Edward Federman is a board-certified pulmonologist and critical care specialist with over 40 years of clinical experience. As a Principal Investigator at Apex Clinical Research, he brings deep expertise in respiratory medicine and internal medicine to support the successful execution of complex clinical trials.
Dr. Federman has led and supported numerous research studies in therapeutic areas including COPD, asthma, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, and vaccines. His commitment to patient safety, protocol compliance, and clinical quality makes him a trusted partner for sponsors and CROs seeking high-caliber investigators. He is actively involved in every phase of the research process—from subject evaluation and enrollment to oversight of clinical data and safety reporting.
In addition to his research work, Dr. Federman maintains hospital affiliations across San Diego, including UCSD Hospital, Sharp Grossmont Hospital, and Pulmonary Medicine & Infectious Disease Group. He is widely respected in the medical and research communities and is frequently sought after by sponsors due to his strong clinical reputation and therapeutic expertise. His active referral network and patient-first approach continue to support Apex’s success in high-quality, diverse enrollment.
Ms. Kaitlin Fredeluces
Assistant Site Manager
Bio
Kaitlin Fredeluces is a Clinical Research Coordinator at Apex Clinical Research, with experience managing trials across a broad range of therapeutic areas including dermatology, vaccines, and respiratory conditions. She brings a strong understanding of the healthcare landscape and its intersection with clinical research, allowing her to navigate complex protocols with precision and integrity.
Kaitlin plays a vital role in ensuring protocol adherence, regulatory compliance, and the accuracy of clinical data. Known for her diligence and patient-first mindset, she consistently achieves high participant retention and engagement. Her ability to foster strong relationships with patients, sponsors, and colleagues contributes directly to the successful execution of high-quality clinical trials at Apex.
Ms. Carla Diaz, NP, FNP-C
Sub-Investigator
Bio
Ms. Carla Diaz is a Nurse Practitioner certified in Family Practice, with extensive clinical experience spanning critical care and family medicine. Before joining clinical research, she served as an ICU nurse, where she honed her skills in patient care, complex case management, and medical decision-making. Now as a Sub-Investigator at Apex Clinical Research, she is a cornerstone of the team, contributing her expertise, precision, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Carla plays a pivotal role in studies across multiple therapeutic areas, including vaccine, obesity, respiratory, and emerging indications. Known for her exceptional attention to detail, leadership, and dedication, she ensures that every aspect of clinical research—from patient safety and protocol adherence to data accuracy and regulatory compliance—is executed to the highest standard. Her commitment drives the site’s exceptional enrollment performance and high-quality data output, reinforcing Apex’s reputation for research excellence.
Carla’s unique combination of clinical acumen and research expertise makes her the driving force behind Apex’s operational success, providing strategic insight, hands-on involvement, and a steadfast focus on delivering impactful research results.
Cheyenne
Clinical Research Coordinator
Jasmine
Clinical Research Coordinator
Amy
Clinical Research Coordinator
Natosha
Clinical Research Coordinator