Story & Lesson Highlights with Noreen Rana of Mesa

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Noreen Rana. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Noreen , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
A few years ago, the idea of starting a Clinical Research Organization (CRO) felt completely out of reach. I doubted my ability to build and lead such an enterprise, even with years of experience behind me.

But after 16 years of working in clinical research, building a strong legacy across various clinical trial industries and teams, I realized that creating a CRO wasn’t just a possibility—it was the natural next step. It was a calling rooted in experience, purpose, and a desire to lead change in an industry I deeply care about.

Stepping into this role meant trusting in my expertise, my voice, and the value of doing things differently. What once felt impossible now feels aligned.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the co-founder and president of Ethos CRO, a full-service Clinical Research Organization dedicated to running large-scale, high-quality clinical trials globally.

What sets Ethos CRO apart is the unwavering foundation of morals and ethics on which we were built. My business partner, Dr. Yadwinder Dhillon, and I share a commitment to operating at the highest standards—not just scientifically, but humanely. Our name, Ethos, reflects exactly that: integrity in every decision, and transparency in every trial we run.

We are redefining what leadership looks like in clinical research—creating space for representation, excellence, and accountability in an industry that truly impacts lives.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My greatest teacher has been literature.

I’ve spent countless hours independently reading every aspect of regulatory literature documentation from the FDA, NIH, IRBs, and more.

I immersed myself in studying the technical, operational, and ethical frameworks that govern clinical research—forcing me to grow unfathomably, innovate, and lead with confidence even in uncharted territory.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Never. I’ve never felt the urge to quit because what I do doesn’t feel like work—it feels like a natural calling. I’m constantly engulfed in various projects, and each new task never feels like a burden.

My journey has been deeply personal—rooted in breaking generational cycles and challenging every expectation placed upon me. While the path has been both a blessing and a challenge at times, it’s also been a powerful source of purpose. On my hardest days, my family is my motivation—they remind me why I keep going.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I believe one of the biggest lies in the clinical research industry is the idea that everyone who advances is the most qualified or the best suited for the role. Too often, leadership fails to bring the right people into the conversation—especially those with practical insight and lived experience. True progress requires listening to the right voices and making space for wisdom where it’s most needed. Allowing the wrong people to lead or make critical decisions ultimately holds the industry back.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days. 
Yes—every single day.

It’s something I never take for granted. Each day presents new challenges, new opportunities, and a new version of myself ready to perform at my absolute best. That daily excitement fuels me.

When I’m working, I feel completely in my element—empowered and confident in my ability to lead and execute large scale clinical trials across multiple countries. I’ve reached a phase in my career where the sky truly feels like the limit. No project feels too big, no task too overwhelming. Instead of fear, I feel a deep sense of purpose and capability.

That energy—that tap dance to work feeling—is what drives me to keep building, innovating, and creating with intention.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://EthosCRO.com
• Instagram: EthosCRO
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ethos-cro/?viewAsMember=true
• Other: Noreen Rana Instagram: Ntrana