The BRAIN (Brain Injury, Rehabilitation, and Neuroresilience) Center at the University of Florida proudly welcomes Jessica Kirwan as the newly appointed Assistant Director of Research Administration. Jessica brings with her a wealth of knowledge in research administration and academic leadership as well as a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration that will further elevate our mission.
An alumna of UF, Jessica graduated with a double major in English and Anthropology before earning a Master’s degree in English with a focus on Victorian Literature. Her journey into clinical research commenced at the UF College of Medicine, where she served as a medical editor in the Department of Radiation Oncology.
Over the next 18 years, Jessica’s expertise expanded exponentially. Her tenure evolved into the role of Assistant Director of Research Administration in Radiation Oncology, for which she spearheaded a multifaceted team overseeing grants, clinical trials, editorial functions, communications, and research support services. Notably, her initiatives included co-founding an international peer-reviewed PubMed-indexed medical journal.
Jessica’s contributions and commitment to the research mission in Radiation Oncology garnered her several accolades, including the University of Florida Superior Accomplishment Award in February 2021. This recognition celebrated her dedication and exceptional service, which significantly contributed to fostering a vibrant and enriching environment at UF. Moreover, that same year, her achievements were acknowledged by the University of Florida Health Cancer Center through the Research Administrator of the Year award, highlighting her role in advancing cancer research initiatives.
Prior to joining the BRAIN Center, Jessica’s commitment to remaining abreast of cutting-edge advancements in medical technology led her to the Intelligent Clinical Care Center in the Department of Medicine, where she facilitated transdisciplinary clinical research in artificial intelligence.
Jessica’s contributions extend beyond her administrative achievements. She has co-authored more than sixty scientific publications and has served as a contributor to the “Medicine” section of the Palgrave Encyclopedia of Victorian Women Writers, showcasing her interests in the intersection of medicine and the humanities.
In her new role, Jessica will oversee research initiatives for the BRAIN Center. Her responsibilities encompass steering strategic planning, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and fostering collaboration among faculty members to achieve the center’s research goals and prioritize patient-centered objectives. Additionally, Jessica will engage with non-profit organizations and Florida’s Department of Health to manage programs that provide crucial support for individuals and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and traumatic brain injury.
Jessica’s skill set, honed through her extensive experience in guiding students, faculty, and staff through the academic research process, underscores her drive to foster innovation, manage complex projects, and steer researchers toward effective and broad dissemination of their discoveries.
The BRAIN Center warmly welcomes Jessica Kirwan to her new role, anticipating her invaluable contributions in advancing research excellence, fostering interdisciplinary synergy, and fortifying UF’s position at the forefront of neurological research and innovation.