Almesha L. Campbell, assistant vice president for research and economic development at Jackson State University in Mississippi, was named chair-elect of the AUTM, a global nonprofit organization whose members support the commercialization of academic research.
AUTM has its roots in the Society of University Patent Administrators from the 1970s. Its name was later changed to the Association of University Technology Managers but now only AUTM is used. AUTM aims to educate, promote and inspire professionals to support the development of academic research that changes the world and drives innovation forward. Its community is comprised of more than 3,000 members who work in more than 800 universities, research centers, hospitals, businesses, and government organizations around the globe.
When she becomes board chair in February 2023, Campbell will be the first African American to lead the organization.
“I am honored to have been elected by the board to serve AUTM in this capacity. I have been a member of the organization for over 10 years and have witnessed the evolution of the bboard and the organization to being more inclusive. I expect to continue to build on the stellar accomplishments of my predecessors to ensure AUTM’s future success and sustainability,” said Dr. Campbell.
At Jackson State, Dr. Campbell spearheads innovation and tech transfer and contributes significantly to activities in federal relations, as well as cultivating corporate partnerships. She assists in the oversight of grants and contracts, sponsored programs, and research compliance.
Dr. Campbell is a graduate of the University of Central Florida, where she majored in mass communications. She holds a master’s degree in mass communications and a Ph.D. in public policy and administration from Jackson State University.
