What Causes Dementia? Debunking Four Myths
Dementia is a complex condition with no singular cause — it doesn’t stem from one single lifestyle decision, and it isn’t an inevitable symptom of
September 11, 2023
Menu
It Starts With You
Let's Do This Together
Welcome to K2 Medical Research, a privately-owned clinical research facility in the greater Orlando area. We specialize in conducting multiphasic clinical trials that promote the development of innovative and effective medical treatments while maintaining the safety and privacy of our participants. Here at K2, we are committed to fighting the diseases that plague our loved ones and ourselves. By harnessing the power of advanced clinical research and connecting our patients with the treatments of tomorrow, we can improve the health of our local communities, and by extent, the population of our world.
Get To Know Our
Principal Investigators
Brandon Lenox, DO is a board-certified anesthesiologist and epidemiologist with a long and distinguished career in medicine. As Chief Medical Officer of K2 Medical Research, Dr. Lenox provides the K2 team with over 20 years’ experience in clinical trials, medical research, and clinical practice. After earning his graduate degree in public health, he went on to graduate from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine with highest honors then completed his residency training at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Lenox served as an epidemiologist with Department of Health and Human Services and Florida Department of Health where he specialized in outbreak research and chronic disease prevention; his ground-breaking work has been featured in numerous peer-reviewed medical journals. In addition, he has pharmaceutical industry experience in the development of antimicrobials and has been the primary investigator on multiple studies. Most recently, Dr. Lenox served as the Chairman of the Clinical Governance Board and President of US Anesthesia Partners of Florida where he oversaw clinical and research operations of over 500 clinicians across the state of Florida. He also served as the Director of Neuroanesthesia and as member of the medical executive committee for Advent Health.
Dr. Lenox is deeply committed to improving population health. He has spent most of his life determined to make a difference in the world and is a driving force for fostering change in the medical field and promoting the well-being of our community. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, surfing and spending quality time with his wife and three active children.
Brandon Lenox, DOChief Medical Officer, Co-Founder 
Dr. Sheila Baez-Torres joins the K2 medical team as a principal investigator. A neurologist and movement disorders specialist with over 12 years’ experience in the field, Dr. Baez-Torres’ main focus is neurodegenerative diseases- specifically dementia and Parkinson’s. After several years of inpatient and outpatient practice for Advent Health, she joined forces with Compass Research, an independent research facility where she participated as the acting clinical neurologist, providing supervision to patients enrolled in numerous clinical trials within her areas of proficiency. In addition to clinical investigator duties, she also lent her expertise in the referral and pre-screening processes at the site. In 2021, she opened her own successful private practice in Winter Park, Florida.
Dr. Baez-Torres’ academic background includes a bachelor’s in general science from the University of Puerto Rico, followed by her medical degree at Universidad Central del Caribe. After graduation, she completed her neurology residency program at Jackson Memorial Hospital at the University of Miami, then participated in a two-year fellowship in movement disorders and electromyography. Most recently, she obtained a master’s degree in business administration from University of Florida in Gainesville.
Dr. Baez-Torres is bilingual; she is fluent in both English and Spanish. She has two daughters and loves spending her free time with family and friends.
Sheila Baez-Torres, MDPrincipal Investigator & Medical Director of Diversity Dr. Baez-Torres’ academic background includes a bachelor’s in general science from the University of Puerto Rico, followed by her medical degree at Universidad Central del Caribe. After graduation, she completed her neurology residency program at Jackson Memorial Hospital at the University of Miami, then participated in a two-year fellowship in movement disorders and electromyography. Most recently, she obtained a master’s degree in business administration from University of Florida in Gainesville.
Dr. Baez-Torres is bilingual; she is fluent in both English and Spanish. She has two daughters and loves spending her free time with family and friends.
Dr. Ty Turbyfill, a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and decorated military veteran, joins K2 Medical Research as an investigator with over thirty years of clinical experience. Throughout his professional career, which has spanned the globe, he has held leadership roles in clinical practice, academia, humanitarian aid, product development and research. In private practice for the last twenty years, Dr. Turbyfill has been using his reconstructive skill set to treat some of the most complex head and neck issues, specializing in bone grafting, pain management, and full arch implant reconstructions.
After receiving his doctoral training from the University of Florida in 1993, he served in the U.S. Navy for over a decade, completing residencies in both General Practice and Oral and Maxillofacial surgery and collecting numerous commendation medals along the way. During his military career, Dr. Turbyfill rapidly achieved the rank of Commander in the Navy, where he treated patients on the frontline of the Gulf War as well as in a hospital setting, routinely addressing a wide array of concerns ranging from complex facial trauma to congenital craniofacial deformities.
Dr. Turbyfill’s contributions to developing nations during the war left a lasting impression; his experience providing humanitarian aid instilled a desire to contribute meaningfully to members in our own community lacking good-quality medical care. Dr. Turbyfill possesses a complex understanding of the importance of including culturally diverse patients in clinical trials and is excited to integrate his clinical skills and teaching ability to inspire others to do the same. When not at work, you can find him When not at work, you can find Dr. Turbyfill spending time with his family or competing in bicycle events all over the country.
Ty Turbyfill, DMDPrincipal Investigator After receiving his doctoral training from the University of Florida in 1993, he served in the U.S. Navy for over a decade, completing residencies in both General Practice and Oral and Maxillofacial surgery and collecting numerous commendation medals along the way. During his military career, Dr. Turbyfill rapidly achieved the rank of Commander in the Navy, where he treated patients on the frontline of the Gulf War as well as in a hospital setting, routinely addressing a wide array of concerns ranging from complex facial trauma to congenital craniofacial deformities.
Dr. Turbyfill’s contributions to developing nations during the war left a lasting impression; his experience providing humanitarian aid instilled a desire to contribute meaningfully to members in our own community lacking good-quality medical care. Dr. Turbyfill possesses a complex understanding of the importance of including culturally diverse patients in clinical trials and is excited to integrate his clinical skills and teaching ability to inspire others to do the same. When not at work, you can find him When not at work, you can find Dr. Turbyfill spending time with his family or competing in bicycle events all over the country.
Jennifer West, a certified physician’s assistant (PA-C), joins K2 Medical Research with more than a decade of clinical experience. Specializing in neurodegenerative disease research, namely Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, Jennifer has served as an investigator on over 30 trials. Prior to clinical research, she held roles in both primary and urgent care, which provided her a well-rounded background in general medicine.
Jennifer’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Secondary Education from Northern State University, followed by a master’s degree Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Dakota. After graduation, Jennifer participated in the National Health Service Corp, where she provided quality healthcare to diverse and traditionally underserved communities.
While Jennifer’s medical training promoted a sophisticated understanding of disease processes, her background in education equipped her with tools to educate patients on the unique benefits of clinical trial participation. She doesn’t just advocate for her patients and their families; she teaches them how to effectively advocate for themselves.
A South Dakota native, Jennifer has lived in central Florida for the past eight years. When she’s not at work, you can find her painting, woodworking, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Jennifer West, PAPrincipal Investigator Jennifer’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Secondary Education from Northern State University, followed by a master’s degree Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Dakota. After graduation, Jennifer participated in the National Health Service Corp, where she provided quality healthcare to diverse and traditionally underserved communities.
While Jennifer’s medical training promoted a sophisticated understanding of disease processes, her background in education equipped her with tools to educate patients on the unique benefits of clinical trial participation. She doesn’t just advocate for her patients and their families; she teaches them how to effectively advocate for themselves.
A South Dakota native, Jennifer has lived in central Florida for the past eight years. When she’s not at work, you can find her painting, woodworking, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Melissa Belardo, is a certified family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC), joins K2 Medical Research with more than a decade of clinical experience. She has served as an investigator in over 20 trials. Prior to clinical research, she held roles in gastroenterology, hepatology, and nurse education.
Melissa’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Adventist University, followed by a master’s degree in Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgetown University.
Melissa is a native of the US Virgin Islands’ and is fluent in both English and Spanish; Melissa has lived in central Florida for the past twenty years. When she’s not at work, you can find her volunteering at her local church and spending time with family.
Melissa Belardo, APRNClinical Investigator Melissa’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Adventist University, followed by a master’s degree in Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgetown University.
Melissa is a native of the US Virgin Islands’ and is fluent in both English and Spanish; Melissa has lived in central Florida for the past twenty years. When she’s not at work, you can find her volunteering at her local church and spending time with family.
Previous
Next
Brandon Lenox, DO is a board-certified anesthesiologist and epidemiologist with a long and distinguished career in medicine. As Chief Medical Officer of K2 Medical Research, Dr. Lenox provides the K2 team with over 20 years’ experience in clinical trials, medical research, and clinical practice. After earning his graduate degree in public health, he went on to graduate from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine with highest honors then completed his residency training at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Lenox served as an epidemiologist with Department of Health and Human Services and Florida Department of Health where he specialized in outbreak research and chronic disease prevention; his ground-breaking work has been featured in numerous peer-reviewed medical journals. In addition, he has pharmaceutical industry experience in the development of antimicrobials and has been the primary investigator on multiple studies. Most recently, Dr. Lenox served as the Chairman of the Clinical Governance Board and President of US Anesthesia Partners of Florida where he oversaw clinical and research operations of over 500 clinicians across the state of Florida. He also served as the Director of Neuroanesthesia and as member of the medical executive committee for Advent Health.
Dr. Lenox is deeply committed to improving population health. He has spent most of his life determined to make a difference in the world and is a driving force for fostering change in the medical field and promoting the well-being of our community. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, surfing and spending quality time with his wife and three active children.
Brandon Lenox, DOChief Medical Officer, Co-Founder
Dr. Sheila Baez-Torres joins the K2 medical team as a principal investigator. A neurologist and movement disorders specialist with over 12 years’ experience in the field, Dr. Baez-Torres’ main focus is neurodegenerative diseases- specifically dementia and Parkinson’s. After several years of inpatient and outpatient practice for Advent Health, she joined forces with Compass Research, an independent research facility where she participated as the acting clinical neurologist, providing supervision to patients enrolled in numerous clinical trials within her areas of proficiency. In addition to clinical investigator duties, she also lent her expertise in the referral and pre-screening processes at the site. In 2021, she opened her own successful private practice in Winter Park, Florida.
Dr. Baez-Torres’ academic background includes a bachelor’s in general science from the University of Puerto Rico, followed by her medical degree at Universidad Central del Caribe. After graduation, she completed her neurology residency program at Jackson Memorial Hospital at the University of Miami, then participated in a two-year fellowship in movement disorders and electromyography. Most recently, she obtained a master’s degree in business administration from University of Florida in Gainesville.
Dr. Baez-Torres is bilingual; she is fluent in both English and Spanish. She has two daughters and loves spending her free time with family and friends.
Sheila Baez-Torres MD, MBAPrincipal Investigator & Medical Director of Diversity Dr. Baez-Torres’ academic background includes a bachelor’s in general science from the University of Puerto Rico, followed by her medical degree at Universidad Central del Caribe. After graduation, she completed her neurology residency program at Jackson Memorial Hospital at the University of Miami, then participated in a two-year fellowship in movement disorders and electromyography. Most recently, she obtained a master’s degree in business administration from University of Florida in Gainesville.
Dr. Baez-Torres is bilingual; she is fluent in both English and Spanish. She has two daughters and loves spending her free time with family and friends.
Dr. Ty Turbyfill, a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and decorated military veteran, joins K2 Medical Research as an investigator with over thirty years of clinical experience. Throughout his professional career, which has spanned the globe, he has held leadership roles in clinical practice, academia, humanitarian aid, product development and research. In private practice for the last twenty years, Dr. Turbyfill has been using his reconstructive skill set to treat some of the most complex head and neck issues, specializing in bone grafting, pain management, and full arch implant reconstructions.
After receiving his doctoral training from the University of Florida in 1993, he served in the U.S. Navy for over a decade, completing residencies in both General Practice and Oral and Maxillofacial surgery and collecting numerous commendation medals along the way. During his military career, Dr. Turbyfill rapidly achieved the rank of Commander in the Navy, where he treated patients on the frontline of the Gulf War as well as in a hospital setting, routinely addressing a wide array of concerns ranging from complex facial trauma to congenital craniofacial deformities.
Dr. Turbyfill’s contributions to developing nations during the war left a lasting impression; his experience providing humanitarian aid instilled a desire to contribute meaningfully to members in our own community lacking good-quality medical care. Dr. Turbyfill possesses a complex understanding of the importance of including culturally diverse patients in clinical trials and is excited to integrate his clinical skills and teaching ability to inspire others to do the same. When not at work, you can find him When not at work, you can find Dr. Turbyfill spending time with his family or competing in bicycle events all over the country.
Ty Turbyfill, DMDPrincipal Investigator After receiving his doctoral training from the University of Florida in 1993, he served in the U.S. Navy for over a decade, completing residencies in both General Practice and Oral and Maxillofacial surgery and collecting numerous commendation medals along the way. During his military career, Dr. Turbyfill rapidly achieved the rank of Commander in the Navy, where he treated patients on the frontline of the Gulf War as well as in a hospital setting, routinely addressing a wide array of concerns ranging from complex facial trauma to congenital craniofacial deformities.
Dr. Turbyfill’s contributions to developing nations during the war left a lasting impression; his experience providing humanitarian aid instilled a desire to contribute meaningfully to members in our own community lacking good-quality medical care. Dr. Turbyfill possesses a complex understanding of the importance of including culturally diverse patients in clinical trials and is excited to integrate his clinical skills and teaching ability to inspire others to do the same. When not at work, you can find him When not at work, you can find Dr. Turbyfill spending time with his family or competing in bicycle events all over the country.
Jennifer West, a certified physician’s assistant (PA-C), joins K2 Medical Research with more than a decade of clinical experience. Specializing in neurodegenerative disease research, namely Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, Jennifer has served as an investigator on over 30 trials. Prior to clinical research, she held roles in both primary and urgent care, which provided her a well-rounded background in general medicine.
Jennifer’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Secondary Education from Northern State University, followed by a master’s degree Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Dakota. After graduation, Jennifer participated in the National Health Service Corp, where she provided quality healthcare to diverse and traditionally underserved communities.
While Jennifer’s medical training promoted a sophisticated understanding of disease processes, her background in education equipped her with tools to educate patients on the unique benefits of clinical trial participation. She doesn’t just advocate for her patients and their families; she teaches them how to effectively advocate for themselves.
A South Dakota native, Jennifer has lived in central Florida for the past eight years. When she’s not at work, you can find her painting, woodworking, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Jennifer West, PAPrincipal Investigator Jennifer’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Secondary Education from Northern State University, followed by a master’s degree Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Dakota. After graduation, Jennifer participated in the National Health Service Corp, where she provided quality healthcare to diverse and traditionally underserved communities.
While Jennifer’s medical training promoted a sophisticated understanding of disease processes, her background in education equipped her with tools to educate patients on the unique benefits of clinical trial participation. She doesn’t just advocate for her patients and their families; she teaches them how to effectively advocate for themselves.
A South Dakota native, Jennifer has lived in central Florida for the past eight years. When she’s not at work, you can find her painting, woodworking, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Melissa Belardo, is a certified family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC), joins K2 Medical Research with more than a decade of clinical experience. She has served as an investigator in over 20 trials. Prior to clinical research, she held roles in gastroenterology, hepatology, and nurse education.
Melissa’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Adventist University, followed by a master’s degree in Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgetown University.
Melissa is a native of the US Virgin Islands’ and is fluent in both English and Spanish; Melissa has lived in central Florida for the past twenty years. When she’s not at work, you can find her volunteering at her local church and spending time with family.
Melissa Belardo, APRNClinical Investigator Melissa’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Adventist University, followed by a master’s degree in Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgetown University.
Melissa is a native of the US Virgin Islands’ and is fluent in both English and Spanish; Melissa has lived in central Florida for the past twenty years. When she’s not at work, you can find her volunteering at her local church and spending time with family.
Previous
Next
K2 Medical Research - ORLANDO
- 407-500-5252
- 541 S. Orlando Ave, Suite 100, Maitland FL 32789
- 9 A.M. - 5 P.M. Monday - Thursday | Closed on Friday
- Send Message
Years of Experience
5,000+ Trials Completed
We provide an extensive list of open studies, please contact our offices to participate.
70+ Years of Experience
A team of highly trained doctors and staff to provide you with the best care.
100% Patient Satisfaction
Find a clinical study that's right for you. We are ready to answer any questions you might have.
Connecting Research
High-Quality Research Network that spans from the North Pacific to the Atlantic Oceans.
Dedicated to Diversity and Inclusion
Over 20K Participants
Multiculturalism and inclusion are important concepts here at K2. We understand the significance of representation of all populations in clinical research and are aware of the current lack of diversity in trial participants. We endeavor to change this. We reject a set-it and forget-it mentality when it comes to equity and justice; instead, we aim to use these ideas as living, working concepts that inform our daily interactions with one another, with patients and with the community at large. Find out more about what we are doing to promote diversity in our clinical trials.
Clinical Research as a Care Option
Clinical Research as a Care Option (CRAACO) is a concept that is revolutionizing health care as we know it. Considering the use of clinical trials as a tool to supplement and/or replace conventional healthcare is a radical notion, but one that stands to benefit patients, physicians, and the research community as a whole. Some of these benefits include faster drug development, and for patients, a more cost-effective approach with better treatment outcomes. Here at K2 Medical Research, we are fully onboard and are collaborating with local practices to help make this innovative idea a reality for our patients. While traditional healthcare presents many well-known challenges to patients seeking treatment, participating in a clinical research trial offers many practical solutions. By participating in a research study with K2, participants can expect to:
- Receive an unsurpassed standard of care with our experienced physicians.
- Be proactive in their own health.
- Receive innovative treatments not yet available at in-patient healthcare offices.
- Participate in improving the health of future generations.
- Be compensated for time and travel.
Current Studies
Technology is ever-changing and constantly evolving. If you are in search of professionals who will attend to your needs, you can’t go wrong with K2 Medical. Contact our clinic at your earliest convenience to enroll in a clinical trial.
Liver Disease
Latest research and new treatments for liver disease such as Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) and Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Diseases of Nervous System
Research aimed to further understand and treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease.
Pain Psychiatric Disease
Research and treatment options of depressive disorders in the chronic pain patient such as depression and anxiety.
Cardiovascular
Studies range from genetic and molecular studies of the mechanisms of cardiovascular disease to studies of vascular properties, lifestyle interventions, and responsiveness to preventive pharmacotherapy.
Diseases of the Endocrine System
In the United States, the most common endocrine disease is diabetes. There are many others such as Addison’s Disease, Cushing’s Syndrome, Graves’ Disease and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis to consider clinical trial participation.
Rheumatology and Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) are a diverse group of conditions that primarily affect the joints, bones, muscle, and connective tissue such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
Gastrointestinal System
Digestive diseases research for disorders of the digestive tract, which is sometimes called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract such as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Crohn's Disease Ulcerative Colitis (UC). Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Diverticulitis.
Diagnostics
Clinical trials that are conducted to find better tests or procedures for diagnosing a particular disease or condition.
Biomarkers
Innovative translational research uses biomarkers to accelerate or aid in diagnosis or monitoring and provide insight into “personalized” medicine. A biomarker is a quantifiable biological parameter (such as blood pressure, heart rate, blood and genetic test, and x-rays) that are measured and evaluated over time as an indicator of normal biological, pathogenic, or pharmacologic responses to a therapeutic intervention.
Food & Nutrition
Nutrition studies the relationship between foods and its effect on an individual's health. Nutrition considers topics such as obesity, malnutrition, food insecurity and nutritional deficiencies.
COVID-19
Research discovering immunity and treatments for Covid-19
"The staff is wonderful, professional and knowledgeable. They provide you with the best service when possible! Whenever I had a question, they were ready to answer. Quick responses and follow ups, and always gives the best advice. "
Study Participant, August 2021
Sponsorships
Help us, help you meet your drug development goals.
Still curious? Read the latest news and press releases about our office.
Aging Makes Us More Vulnerable to Financial Scams: Here’s How to Spot Them
Your phone rings out of the blue. It’s an unknown number. Picking up, you hear a gruff, aggressive voice on the other end. They tell
August 28, 2023
The Link Between Depression and Dementia
More than 60 percent of people with dementia are also diagnosed with depression. There’s a lot of overlap in the symptoms between these two conditions,
August 15, 2023
Tomorrow’s treatment today.
Translate Language
Select A Location
Still curious? Read the latest news and press releases about our office.
Clinical trial hoping to speed up Alzheimer's diagnoses for minorities
April 17, 2022
Joining Studies & Team
June 2, 2021
Advancing Technology
April 19, 2021