How long have you worked at UAMS?
I have worked at UAMS for a year and a half and occupy the position for which I was originally hired (i.e., OSPAN Research Administrator supporting the College of Public Health).
What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job is working with the faculty; I’m very fortunate to work with such a great group, they are all wonderful people who are passionate about improving health for everyone.
Are there any challenges?
It can be challenging to find a common language between all of the different roles that touch a grant – from the PI to the program officer to the research administrator to the grants’ accounting specialists, everyone looks at the grant from a different perspective. It can be hard sometimes to find where everything intersects and everyone speaks the same language.
How do you/ your group handle problematic issues?
Before a person can attempt to find a solution, he/she has have to have a solid understanding of the issue, so listening is key to understanding. Once the issue is understood, I try to find solutions based on the desired outcome. So again, it’s really specific to each issue and being able to customize my approach to the person who needs resolution.
Can you describe that?
I try to constantly reinforce with my group that I always welcome feedback, and don’t think there’s any such thing as “bad” feedback – it’s all an opportunity to improve.
How many applications/proposals do you work on annually?
Since I’ve only been here a year and a half, I have limited data, but after checking my numbers for different 12-month periods, it seems to stay right around 80 submissions.
How about after hours? What do you do for fun?
I don’t know that I would necessarily always call it “fun” haha, but I foster rescue dogs and it’s always rewarding. I also absolutely love live music. I go to a lot of different kinds of shows and always enjoy it.
What personal skill or hobby don’t most people know about you?
I have a lot of hobbies, but for some reason it always really surprises people when they find out that I play the guitar and knit, but not at the same time. As far as personal skill, I make the best martini ever – seriously, ask my team, it’s like a superpower.
Any last thoughts on your position as Research Administrator?
I love my job, and feel very fortunate to be in my position. Every day I get to help people, who have devoted their careers to helping everyone else, and it’s a great feeling to be able to help them make the world a better place.