Facility manager’s proactive approach improves research

Kayla Dye | Facility Manager | Kansas Biological Survey & Center for Ecological Research

For biologists to do their work, they need equipment in the field and lab space to process samples they acquire. Kayla Dye ensures equipment and spaces like these are suitable for University of Kansas researchers.

Dye is the facility manager for the Kansas Biological Survey & Center for Ecological Research, one of KU’s 11 designated research centers. She earned her bachelor’s degree in molecular biosciences and master’s degree in environmental assessment at KU before joining the survey in January 2024.

"Like the rest of KU, we have a long list of facility needs and repairs,” said Sara Baer, survey director and professor of ecology & evolutionary biology. “I am continuously astonished by how much progress Kayla makes on this list every day and maintains capacity to take on more tasks to keep the labs and buildings that support sensitive research operating."

For example, survey researchers monitor Kansas lakes for harmful algal blooms that can impact human health. Ted Harris, an associate research professor who conducts this monitoring, said Dye takes time to learn about the research needs of survey scientists to plan for potential issues. She has connected Harris and his colleagues with other facilities staff for help with welding and boat repairs.

“Kayla has come out with us multiple times to see what our lake assessment group does on lakes and subsequently supplied us with a number of items that have come in very handy if we get a flat tire or if we get stuck on a muddy boat ramp,” Harris said.

In addition to maintaining the boat and vehicle fleet, Dye oversees buildings that house essential research equipment.

She has addressed many long-term needs, including arranging for a new roof for the research annex that houses the International Collection of Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (INVAM), consolidating infrequently used equipment into a shared lab space, and coordinating the creation of a lactation room.

“Kayla is ambitious, energetic, resourceful and maintains a positive attitude despite having to negotiate many hurdles to accomplishing her goals,” Baer said. “It’s also very clear that Kayla loves her position and is a superfan of KU.”