Who are your favorite writers?
As a former bookseller, this is a tough one. My two favorite living authors are Louise Erdrich and Marlon James. My favorite deceased authors are Jane Austen and Jules Verne. I also love David Mitchell, Colson Whitehead, Michael Pollan, Ann Patchett, Elizabeth Gilbert and Eugenia Bone.  

Who is your hero of fiction? 
Hero is such a powerful word. Katniss Everdeen (and her awesome braid) for her commitment to community and the greater good. 

Who are your heroes in real life?
Strong and powerful women. I appreciate positive female role models across STEM and love to see them lifted up. Rosalind Franklin (known for her role in the discovery of the structure of DNA) is a great example. She followed her dream and contributed so much to science.

What are your favorite names?
I like Corin! Names I like to be called are “smarty pants” or “expert.”

What is it that you most dislike?
Greed. There is no excuse for greed. 

What is your greatest regret?
Not making more time for my close family. My brother is wonderful and I have let many years slip between us without much notice. I intend to cherish him more. 

When and where were you happiest?
In my home life, late afternoon, stretched out on my bed and reading a good book with my partner and our cats. In my work life, it is when I am solving problems and helping bridge communication failures between parties. I like to create collaboration and build strong relationships. 

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would be clearer in my communications. Sometimes my head gets ahead of my words and it is hard to get my message across. 

What (or who) lured you into tech transfer and what makes you stay?
I found tech transfer by accident, scrolling through job postings at the University of Louisville looking for a career in STEM. I have an undergraduate degree in Natural Science, Microbiology and put myself through college as a paralegal. I was working as a bookseller and community engagement events manager and I needed more from life to feel impactful. The job ad asked for customer service, legal experience and science knowledge. It was perfect for me! I stay for the complex challenges that arise daily. I think it’s thrilling not knowing what the day is going to bring. Each new piece of technology and each new compliance challenge are opportunities to create a better world for those we leave behind. I love that and try to keep sight of it every day.