About Us
Arizona Neuroscience Research shares facilities with the Center for Neurology and Spine. An established neurology practice with two locations in the valley provides collaborative individualized treatment plans. While they specialize in Multiple Sclerosis, they are proficient in all Neurological conditions (i.e., Headaches & Migraines, Alzheimer’s Disease, Cervical Dystonia, Seizures, etc.).
Significant advances in therapies in the past 25 years have been attributed to what we have learned from clinical trials. The results of these trials have benefited the patients in these communities. At Arizona Neuroscience Research, we are thankful for the contributions of these participants. Our investigators are grateful to be at the forefront and provide opportunities for all patients to participate in future treatments.
Our Team
Arizona Neuroscience Research comprises experienced clinical research professionals who are passionate about working with patients to gather data that will lead to new therapies. We pride ourselves on educating the patients and using our compassionate approach.
Rebecca Jones, MD
Dr. Rebecca Jones, an esteemed Mayo Clinic-trained neurologist based at the Center for Neurology and Spine in Phoenix, AZ, is a Principal Investigator at Arizona Neuroscience Research, where she is at the forefront of developing new neurological treatments. Her work, particularly in multiple sclerosis and related disorders, involves leading clinical trials that explore innovative therapies and address the needs of diverse patient groups, a testament to her dedication to inclusive and comprehensive medical research. She has been instrumental in trials exploring novel treatments for multiple sclerosis and related neurological disorders, focusing on understanding disease progression and identifying biomarkers of neuronal damage. Dr. Jones’s dual role in research and clinical practice makes her a key contributor to advancing neurology, directly impacting patient care and the broader medical community.
Leslie Zuniga, MD
Dr. Leslie Zuniga, a distinguished Mayo Clinic-trained neurologist and Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist based at the Center for Neurology and Spine in Phoenix, AZ, is making significant strides in neurological care as a Principal Investigator at Arizona Neuroscience Research. Renowned for her deep commitment to advancing medical knowledge, Dr. Zuniga leads pivotal research in developing new treatments for conditions such as multiple sclerosis, migraine, and essential tremor. Her role in researching multiple sclerosis is particularly impactful, where, as a certified specialist, she explores innovative therapies to offer advanced care options. Her research extends to other areas of neurology as well, focusing on more effective and targeted treatments to enhance patient quality of life. Dr. Zuniga’s dedication to clinical research, combined with her role in patient care, positions her uniquely to translate the latest scientific findings into effective treatments, ensuring her patients access to the most advanced care.
Ashely Mitchell
Ashely Mitchell is the Clinical Research Manager and Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Arizona Neuroscience Research, bringing a diverse and rich background to her role. Her academic journey began at John A. Gupton Mortuary College in Nashville, TN, where she earned an Associate of Arts in Funeral Directing & Embalming, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences & Business Administration from Tusculum University in Greeneville, TN. Ashely's career in the clinical research industry started in 2017 as a Clinical Research Coordinator in Ophthalmology, marking the beginning of her profound impact in the field. In 2019, she transitioned into Neuroscience as a Clinical Research Manager, further deepening her expertise. Her notable progression led to her promotion to Vice President of Strategic Partnerships in 2023, a role she commenced with Arizona Neuroscience Research on July 1, 2022. Beyond her professional endeavors, Ashely enjoys an active lifestyle, indulging in hobbies like riding motorbikes and horses, playing volleyball, dancing, and spending quality time with her Double-Doodle puppy, Ducati. A dedicated member of the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), she is passionately committed to advancing research in neurological disorders and diseases, blending her unique educational background with her extensive experience to make significant contributions to the field of neuroscience.
Jeffrey S. Gitt, DO
Dr. Jeffrey S. Gitt, originating from Detroit, Michigan, has carved a niche for himself in the realms of neurology and clinical research, with a particular focus on the Phoenix area. His academic odyssey commenced at the University of Michigan, culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology and Zoology in 1979. His pursuit of medical excellence propelled him to the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in Pomona, California, where he emerged as a graduate in 1983. Following an internship at Phoenix General Hospital in 1984, Dr. Gitt further honed his expertise in neurology at Georgetown University Medical Center until 1987, also distinguishing himself as Chief Resident during this tenure.
Dr. Gitt's professional standing is fortified by board certifications in Neurology by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and in Sleep Medicine by The American Board of Sleep Medicine, alongside being a recognized Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist by the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers.
A founding figure of both the HOPE Research Institute and Arizona Neuroscience Research, prominent multi-specialty clinical research organizations, Dr. Gitt has led the helm as a Principal Investigator in over 80 clinical drug trials. His investigative endeavors currently extend across a spectrum of neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Migraine, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease, underscoring his relentless commitment to advancing medical knowledge and treatments.
On the personal front, Dr. Gitt shares his life with Ellen, his wife of 40 years, and is a father to twin girls and a son. His leisure times are enlivened by his passion for hockey and guitar playing. His professional dedication and expertise have been acknowledged by his peers, earning him the "Top Doc" award in 2011, 2014, 2015, and 2017.
In his roles at both the HOPE Research Institute and Arizona Neuroscience Research, Dr. Gitt embodies the convergence of professional excellence and profound commitment to enhancing the landscape of neurology and clinical research, steadfastly contributing to the advancement of treatment options for neurological disorders.
Morgan Smith
Morgan is a Clinical Research Coordinator who brings years of clinical experience along with a background in regulatory practice to her, Morgan's path into healthcare began at the local plasma bank, where she worked while pursuing her eventual degree in biochemistry from the University of Missouri, Columbia. The study of biochemistry awakened a deep interest in characterizing unique disorders and their pathologies, such as MS, while working with plasma donors instilled a passion for coming alongside patients in all their different walks of life. In the years since, Morgan has built her knowledge in each of the various facets of research, including pharmacology, data analytics, GXP/FDA compliance, and clinical practice. Her experience begins with conceptual lab testing and continues through the investigational process all the way through phase IV and commercial clinical trials. When not with patients or performing the other myriad duties of a CRC, Morgan enjoys ordinary hobbies of reading, drawing, painting, and rock climbing. With a complete view of the research pipeline and an intense love of solving puzzles, there is much that Morgan can do in her future to make wide changes in the lives of patients with MS and other distinct conditions.
Emily Trejo
Emily Trejo is a Senior Clinical Research Coordinator at Arizona Neuroscience Research. She graduated from Arizona State University in May 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. That same year, she began her journey in Ophthalmology research as a Clinical Research Assistant. Her ambition led to her promotion from a Clinical Research Assistant to Clinical Research Coordinator in less than a year. As much as she enjoyed Ophthalmology research, she wanted to further expand her expertise in Neuroscience. In July 2023, she joined Arizona Neuroscience Research as a senior clinical research coordinator, where she actively recruits patients for indications such as multiple sclerosis, essential tremor, and migraine.
Madison Turner
Madison Turner is the Regulatory Coordinator and Recruitment Specialist at Arizona Neuroscience Research. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Cell and Molecular Biology at Missouri State University in December 2021. Upon graduation, she began her career in the medical field as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Missouri. Her expertise in biology, coupled with her hands-on experience in the medical field, led her to engage in clinical research. Madison eagerly joined Arizona Neuroscience Research in June 2023 and looks forward to witnessing the future progress in Neuroscience research.