Palubin Receives Excellence in Nursing Practice Award
Meghan Palubin was not sure what to expect when a friend encouraged her to apply for her first clinical research role.
"I decided to take the opportunity, and nearly seven years later, I’m still here. I never initially envisioned a career in research, but it’s been a rewarding path, and I’m grateful it found me," she says.
Palubin, MSN, RN, AMB-BC, is a clinical research nurse coordinator in the Clinical Research Unit (CRU), part of the NUCATS Center for Clinical Research (CCR). She is a 2026 recipient of the Northwestern Medicine Academic Medical Center’s Excellence in Nursing Practice (ENP) Award, an honor awarded annually to a select group of Northwestern Medicine nurses who demonstrate exceptional professional practice. Awardees are nominated by their peers, with nominations supported by interprofessional narratives that highlight collaboration and impact.
I genuinely love the work I do, and the people I work with are a big part of what makes it so meaningful. Being recognized by my peers makes this award even more special.”
"I genuinely love the work I do, and the people I work with are a big part of what makes it so meaningful. Being recognized by my peers makes this award even more special," Palubin says. "I work with such a dedicated and supportive team, and that environment makes a big difference in both the quality of our work and the overall experience."
The CRU provides research-specific nursing and laboratory services for the implementation of clinical trials and other clinical research, helping expand access to innovative studies for participants. Palubin’s role as a clinical research nurse coordinator focuses on study start-up and ongoing management, working closely with other CCR staff to help ensure a smooth intake process for study requests. In partnership with investigators and study teams, Palubin helps create clear study instructions while ensuring protocol compliance.
"I’m constantly learning, which keeps the work engaging," says Palubin. "It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of cutting-edge research and to play a role in helping these trials succeed, particularly when that work contributes to improving patient care and advancing translational science."
Palubin resides in downtown Chicago with her husband, Ryan, and two dogs, Bella and Jay. She spends her spare time with family and friends, attending White Sox games or concerts and enjoying the lakefront. "My favorite part about Chicago is the endless variety of things to do," she says. "There’s always something going on, and never a shortage of ways to enjoy the city."
Through her accolades and impactful work at Northwestern, Palubin reflects on the unexpected start to her career and her growth throughout.
"When I look back at where I started and where I am now, I know my younger self would be proud of both the big milestones and the small accomplishments along the way," she says.
Written by Kevin Castro
