About Us
Advancing Neurology Research with Heart
At Inland Northwest Research (INWR), we believe clinical research can be both cutting-edge and compassionate. As the only dedicated neuroscience clinical trial site within a 1,000-square-mile radius, we serve participants from across the region, the country, and even internationally. Our work centers on Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and related neurodegenerative conditions—delivering new hope, innovative therapies, and personalized support along the way.
We understand that participating in a clinical trial requires time, trust, and commitment. To support our participants—especially those traveling from out of the area—we assist with logistical planning and offer comfortable hotel accommodations when appropriate. During extended visits, our staff remains attentive to patient needs to ensure a smooth, respectful, and well-coordinated experience in a private, research-focused environment.
Whether you’re a participant, care giver, or research partner, you’ll find a committed, experienced team ready to help.
Meet the INWR Team
Jason Aldred, MD, FAAN
Principal Investigator
Dr. Jason Aldred is a board-certified neurologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology (FAAN), with over 15 years of experience in clinical research and patient care focused on movement disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
He completed his neurology residency at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where he served as chief resident, followed by a two-year fellowship in Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders at the Portland VA/OHSU PADRECC program. During this time, he developed advanced expertise in botulinum toxin therapies, deep brain stimulation (DBS) evaluation and programming, and complex medication management. He also earned a Certificate in Human Investigations through OHSU’s Human Investigations Program, gaining formal training in clinical trial design and execution.
As Principal Investigator at INWR, Dr. Aldred leads multiple clinical trials targeting Parkinson’s disease and related disorders. He holds academic appointments with the University of Washington WWAMI program and the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University in Spokane, where he mentors medical students and teaches residents at Sacred Heart Hospital.
Kristine Wessels, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Kristine is an experienced physician assistant with over 20 years of service to adult and pediatric patients with complex medical needs. As a core member of our Movement Disorders care team, she works closely with Dr. Aldred to provide compassionate, high-quality care to patients living with neurodegenerative diseases. Her deep expertise in neurology and long-standing commitment to the community make her an invaluable asset to both clinical care and research at INWR.
Kat Cassels, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Kat brings over a decade of experience in neurology, hospital medicine, and addiction care, with a strong focus on comprehensive patient assessment and diagnostic accuracy. As a sub-investigator at INWR, she contributes to protocol execution and participant oversight, drawing on her clinical expertise across both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Mike Dauer, MS, MBA
Research Director
Mike brings over 16 years of experience leading research and diagnostic teams at institutions like the University of Washington and Adaptive Biotechnologies. He oversees INWR’s daily operations and long-term strategy, ensuring high-quality trial execution, team support, and excellent sponsor collaboration.
Bonnie Burgess, MA-P
Regulatory Compliance Officer
With 20 years of experience in clinical research, Bonnie ensures that every protocol meets the highest standards of regulatory compliance, ethics, and safety.
Lindsey Strom
Research Coordinator
Lindsey holds a degree and has an extensive background in surgical technology, and executive leadership, bringing a detail-oriented and clinically grounded approach to research coordination. She is committed to providing high-quality support to study participants and contributing to the advancement of care in neurology.
Aaron Dahl, BS
Research Coordinator
With a background in Pre-Med from Eastern Washington University, Aaron brings a strong foundation in clinical science and a passion for advancing care in movement disorders. He has played a key role in multiple device and intervention trials at INWR, where his attention to detail, dedication to innovation, and commitment to patient experience continue to support high-quality research execution.
Abigail Crooks, BA
Research Coordinator
Abigail brings over 16 years of experience as a clinical research coordinator, with a strong background in neurology-focused trials. Her top priority is ensuring every participant feels seen, supported, and as comfortable as possible—no matter how complex the visit.
October StrangeResearch ASsistant
October supports front desk operations, data entry, and study coordination with a strong focus on accuracy and quality. She brings prior experience in clinical research at OHSU and diagnostic testing, contributing a high level of attention to detail and data integrity across all trials. Passionate about advancing clinical science, she plays a key role in ensuring smooth study operations and reliable research outcomes.
Diane Marsh
Study Labs
Diane oversees all biospecimen collection and processing for INWR’s clinical trials, ensuring accuracy, protocol compliance, and timely lab submissions. Her calm and compassionate approach helps put participants at ease and contributes to a smooth, professional visit experience.
Jen Haines , RN
Study Pharmacy
Jen manages investigational product logistics with precision, ensuring that patients receive timely, accurate doses in line with all regulatory standards.
Sasha Daratha, RN
Study Pharmacy
Sasha brings extensive experience as an infusion nurse to her role as study pharmacist, ensuring safe and precise handling of investigational products across a wide range of protocols. She is deeply committed to optimizing patient care and consistently advocates for comfort, safety, and clinical excellence throughout the research process.
Schaefer Grant, bs & ba
Clinical & Research administrative coordinator
Schaefer serves as a liaison between INWR and Selkirk Neurology, working with both teams to ensure well-coordinated care and clinical trials. She brings three years of managerial experience, research experience in ophthalmology and oncology, and experience as a Medical Assistant to her role.
A Commitment to Comfort, Communication, and Community
Our Commitment
Our mission is not only to conduct high-quality, impactful research, but to ensure that every individual who walks through our doors feels respected, supported, and well cared for. We are committed to clear, transparent communication with our sponsors and to providing a positive, professional experience for all research participants—from first contact through study completion.
Contact
For questions, feedback, or to connect directly:
Mike Dauer
Research Director