Nyssa Towsley

My experiences as a research administrator demonstrate a commitment to developing the processes and stakeholder relationships necessary to support a research culture that appreciates the need for regulatory compliance, grounds its practice in ethical principles, and sees the HRPP/IRB as a generative and collegial partner. I became interested in data analysis and applied research as a research intern for the AFL-CIO. Since then, I have worked as a clinical research coordinator for a study team receiving a large NIH grant to conduct a multi-site clinical trial. In that position and in previous administrative positions, I have been able to develop my skill at project management. I have specific experience in communication/marketing, customer service, developing standard operating procedures, and designing and maintaining file systems and databases. I am proficient with R and SAS and have experience with different database solutions. In my clinical research role, I became intimately familiar with the development and execution of clinical research trials in a higher education setting. As an IRB Analyst, I applied my knowledge of the regulatory environment of sponsored research, where I reviewed and approved research studies at VCU, ensuring they complied with regulatory and ethical standards. As the Education & Outreach Manager for the VCU HRPP, I developed, facilitated, and evaluated programs that empower researchers (both faculty and students) to develop high-quality IRB submissions, interface effectively and efficiently with IRB reviewers and staff, and ultimately reduce overall time to approval. As the UNLV HRPP Manager, I am responsible for managing key strategic initiatives, such as maintaining accreditation with AAHRPP, authoring policy, and engaging in education & outreach efforts. My educational background is in Political Science and Applied Statistics. I also hold a Master's degree in Research Administration from Johns Hopkins University, with a focus on Regulatory Management and Financial Management of sponsored programs. I also hold the Certified IRB Professional credential. I have volunteered extensively with organizations that promote stronger, more empowered communities. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, listening to audiobooks, and crafting. I live in Portland, OR with my spouse, a loving, 6-year old dog, and a grumpy but still loving adult cat. For other Brené Brown fans, my two core values are curiosity and kindness.