How long have you worked at UAMS? How long have you been in your current position?
I have worked at UAMS and in my current position almost 10 years.
What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job is the people I work with directly. BioVentures is a small, but very busy department so I appreciate how well we work together. Each person obviously has their own expertise for their position but we all value each other’s skills and respect them.
Are there any challenges?
Being the first person someone sees coming into the building or calling on the phone, some days the challenge is to always have a smile.
How does your work assignment interact with other UAMS groups?
One of BioVentures’ hats is a technology licensing office so we work with all ‘walks’ of UAMS from Researchers to Nurses to all who submit an invention disclosure. This involves interaction with the Inventors, the Patent & Copyright Committee, attorneys, and sometimes government reporting and licensors.
Another BioVentures’ hat is an incubator for startup companies. This involves interaction with the business owners and with UAMS from badge access to movers to OHS. Physical Plant is a constant, needing their expertise of building maintenance and repair.
There is also the administrative side of coordinating calendars, meetings, and events so interaction with UAMS Admins is necessary.
How do you/your group handle problematic issues?
Problematic issues are handled professionally, swiftly, and efficiently. Consultation with one of the Associate Directors or Director is always welcome and then lastly if necessary, handled by our Director.
How many invention disclosures do you work on each year?
My desk handles approximately 35 invention disclosures and their associated legal documents each year. Additionally, legal documents and government reporting for 150 active patent cases and the financial processing for $1.68 million in income and $1.60 million in expenses are managed annually.
How about after hours? What do you do for fun? What personal skill or hobby don’t most people know about you?
I don’t have any fascinating hobbies worth mentioning, but my time after hours is mostly spent with our 3 grown children and their families, our extended families, and our church family.
My husband’s and my interests throughout the year are on any beach travel or boating at Lake Ouachita that we can fit in.
Any last thoughts on your position as the BioVentures’ Project Specialist?
I love my position of many hats and feel blessed to be capable and appreciated in this job.