SUMMARY
The research interests of Zubin Master, Ph.D., broadly cover ethical and policy issues related to regenerative medicine and stem cell research, genetics, research ethics, and the responsible conduct of research. More specifically, Dr. Zubin's interests rest on understanding how personal beliefs and perceptions of scientific evidence impact health care decision-making.
Dr. Master's latest work centers on the translation and commercialization of stem cell interventions and the direct-to-consumer market of FDA-unapproved stem cell treatments. He is also interested in ethical and policy issues related to Right to Try and the FDA's Expanded Access Program. His work in research integrity concentrates on authorship and publication ethics, mentorship, and research integrity climate.
Focus areas
- Characterizing how patients and their providers consider scientific evidence in making shared decisions to pursue regenerative medicine therapy options
- Incorporating the views of patients, physicians and others to develop patient-centered tools to improve patient-provider communication in health care decision-making
- Examining ethical and policy issues on research involving genetics and gene editing
- Promoting the responsible conduct of research by outlining strategies for scientists and research institutions on authorship and publication ethics, conflicts of interest, and mentorship
- Examining the perceptions of patients and physicians on accessing unapproved medical interventions under various policy frameworks including Right to Try, physician scope of practice and medical innovation, and expanded access
Significance to patient care
Dr. Master's work in regenerative medicine is directly relevant to patient education and the provision of physician services to patients. Working with colleagues within Mayo Clinic's Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dr. Master's research is translated to improve the effectiveness of informing and navigating the Center's Regenerative Medicine Consultation Service for patients. Dr. Master's work involves the creation of patient educational materials in stem cells and regenerative medicine and the development of tools for physicians to improve patient-physician communication.
Professional highlights
- Associate Editor, Journal of Bioethical Inquiry, 2016-present
- Editor, Accountability in Research: Policy and Quality Assurance, 2013-present
- Member, Stem Cell Oversight Committee, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, 2013-2019
- Member and content expert, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy Practices Workgroup, Federation of State Medical Boards, 2017-2018