Tackling research administration with a 'bring it on' attitude

Jennifer Myers | Associate Director, Finance & Planning | Life Span Institute | January 2020

In the fluctuating landscape of research administration, Jennifer Myers keeps KU’s Life Span Institute on its toes.

“Jen always approaches change with a ‘bring it on’ attitude,” a co-worker said. “She is the ultimate problem solver.”

As associate director of finance and planning, Myers manages LSI’s budget and finances, supervises grant managers and addresses any fiscal issues that arise.

“Jen is the subject matter expert on all things finance,” a colleague said. “If she does not know an answer offhand, she always knows where to look or who to consult.”

Myers brings a team approach to her work at LSI, making staff and faculty feel welcome and supported. One investigator recalled a time when Myers, still fairly new to her role, assembled an entire system within a few days to support a $24.5 million grant project. She was not funded for this work, but she completed it for the betterment of LSI.

“She manages way too much for one human being and does so with grace and humility,” the investigator said.

Other colleagues echoed that sentiment, noting that Myers nurtures a collaborative environment and handles pressure with humor and kindness.

“Jen is very approachable. Anyone is welcome to come to her with a question or just needing a second set of eyes,” a co-worker said. “She has a great sense of humor, which carries her through the ups and downs of research administration.”