Megan Aanstoos, PhD
Licensing & New Ventures Manager, Commercialization Core
Commonwealth Commercialization Center (C3)
Commercialization Manager
University of Louisville​
Co-Programming Chair, AUTM Central Region Meeting Committee
Chair, AUTM Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Committee
AUTM Member since 2018
When and where were you happiest? 
In general, I'm happiest when eating a delicious, exotic, interesting meal with my husband. Ideally, when in a new city that we had a chance to explore first and are finishing the day with a bang. One such instance was in Las Vegas when we went to é - the best meal of my life so far and a fantastically happy time. 

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would boost my patience level. I tend to jump into things and want to solve a problem or obtain immediate results without getting all the information or waiting to see how something will play out. It's important to balance out a "go get it" attitude with "collect the facts before you act."

What is your most marked characteristic?
My empathy for others. I aspire to always deliver the best result I can to my customer in a timely manner. I try to put myself in their place—what do they need and how can I deliver it?
If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be? A well-loved, pampered, regularly groomed, beautiful, long-haired cat. 

What is your most treasured possession?
My mind. Being able to dream and do those things that you imagine is so valuable.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Being lost without a plan. I like plans. Even if they go awry, they give you a sense of purpose and a direction to work toward. 

What is your favorite occupation?
I like any occupation where I can help others while wearing cashmere. This knocks out messy lab work and surgery (which I still appreciate through a brief visit), but gives me the variety of life and lets me feel happy in a myriad of roles. 

Which historical figure do you most identify with?
Ludwig van Beethoven. He didn't let his hearing loss hold him back from creating masterpieces or engaging with his community.

What’s the resource you rely on the most in tech transfer and why?
The network of people I know. If I can't figure something out, or don't know what to do, I connect with someone who might have that experience. I'm always looking to grow my network and also serve as a resource for others. Those who learn together and collaborate will always do better than those who strike out alone.