Joan T. Merrill, a leading figure in lupus research at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, shares insights on her groundbreaking SLEek Study. She discusses the efficacy and safety of upadacitinib and elsubrutinib for systemic lupus erythematosus. The conversation delves into innovative trial designs, challenges in lupus treatment trials during the pandemic, and personal anecdotes from her unique journey into rheumatology. Merrill emphasizes how patient experiences shape research and highlights the promising outcomes of recent clinical trials.