Associate director helps social science researchers earn external awards

Jamie Jones | Associate Director of Project Development | Life Span Institute

Whether a task involves knowing the complex requirements of a federal grant proposal or simply supporting her supervisees, Jamie Jones pays attention.

Jones began working in the Life Span Institute (LSI) in 2014. Five years later, she went to work directly for an LSI researcher as a project manager. Jones came back to LSI in 2022 and currently serves as the associate director of project development.

When a university researcher wants to conduct research requiring funding, they turn to external sponsors such as government agencies, nonprofit foundations or industry groups for grants. Jones helps these principal investigators (PIs) write and edit their proposals to comply with the sponsor’s requirements. This editing process— which requires being mindful of minute details— increases the likelihood of the investigator receiving the funding.

“I know of a number of situations where our PIs have gotten materials to her very close to deadline and she has successfully worked to get materials uploaded and submitted so that the investigators’ work qualifies for their grant competitions,” said John Colombo, professor of psychology and director of the Life Span Institute.

Jones also supervises and trains new grant coordinators who also help PIs in preparing to submit proposals. She makes sure that no questions go unanswered during the process of onboarding into a complex position. Those who report to Jones note she balances the need for high standard work with work-life boundaries.

“I came to work for Jamie and LSI from a very different career. From my first day, I have always felt supported by Jamie. In training, she is patient and encouraging - providing confidence when I am unsure of myself and kindly re-answering questions, I know I've asked before,” said Becca Killen, a grant coordinator.

Colleagues say that Jones’s attention to detail is key to both her personal success and that of the proposals she helps prepare.

“Jamie is meticulous, rigorous, and careful while at the same time, she is fair, caring, and sympathetic.   These qualities represent the perfect combination for assisting our investigators in getting their proposals together and submitted,” Colombo said.