Craig Yarger

overview

I am a dedicated healthcare professional with a diverse background in clinical nursing, critical care, and clinical research. Currently, I serve as a Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator II, heading the Allergy & Immunology Research Department at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where I manage patient care for those participating in research studies. In this role, I ensure compliance with research protocols, support patient symptom management, and work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to maintain ethical standards and protect patient well-being.

Before transitioning to research, I gained extensive experience as a Critical Care Registered Nurse in the Neuro/Trauma ICU and Critical Care settings at UPMC Presbyterian and Forbes Regional Hospital. I have cared for critically ill patients with complex trauma and neurological conditions, including traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, working alongside leading surgeons and specialists in the field. These experiences have developed my ability to think critically under pressure, manage advanced procedures, and provide compassionate, patient-centered care.

I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Bioengineering at the University of Pittsburgh, focusing in Medical Product Engineering, with an expected graduation in Fall 2025. This academic pursuit allows me to combine my clinical expertise with cutting-edge medical technology to improve patient care and advance the development of medical devices.

My goal is to bridge the gap between healthcare and innovation, using my background in both nursing and bioengineering to drive impactful changes in the healthcare industry. I am passionate about improving patient outcomes, advancing clinical research, and contributing to the development of next-generation medical technologies.