The School of Medicine Basic Sciences is a remarkable community dedicated to advancing the study of human biology, health, and disease. In addition to the award-winning faculty, postdocs, and students who are at the forefront of our cutting-edge research, a large part of our school’s success can be attributed to our staff.
Join us in recognizing and appreciating our staff members and the hard work they do to facilitate the exceptional exploration into basic biomedical science that takes place at our school.
We sat down with Rosalind “Roz” Johnson to learn more about her and the work she does at Vanderbilt as a graduate education program manager in the SOMBS.
How long have you been working for Vanderbilt?
I have been working for Vanderbilt for more than 36 years! Currently, I am the graduate education program manager for the Human Genetics and Neuroscience graduate programs.
What is unique about working for the SOMBS?
Interacting with all the different people. We have such a distinct group of talented staff, faculty, and students.
What is a project that you are looking forward to?
Each year in the fall, I attend the Society for Neuroscience graduate fair, where we recruit students for the neuroscience graduate program. This annual trip has been an awesome opportunity for me to meet people from all over the world.
What is your favorite memory or project you have completed during your time at the SOMBS?
Welcoming new students to the Human Genetics and Neuroscience graduate programs. Each year, we welcome a new cohort of bright, motivated students who are passionate about advancing science and improving human health.
Who has had a positive impact on your work?
There is not just one person! My SOMBS colleagues, including Lorie Franklin, Melissa Krasnove, Liz Roelofsz, Patty Mueller, Rischelle Jenkins, Bobbi Stidham, and Chazlie Miller who are also graduate program managers, are wonderful to work with. We work together to as a team to help and support each other as we do our jobs. Lastly, my directors of graduate studies, Bruce Carter and David Samuels. It is a honor to work for you two.
What professional or personal achievement are you most proud of?
I was a founding member of the Graduate Program Administrators and Coordinators group at Vanderbilt, which we established in 2008. This group created a valuable space for staff who work directly with students to connect, support one another, and share best practices.
What is a fun fact about you?
I cannot wait until July each year. This is when Hallmark movie channel starts their Christmas in July marathon of new holidays movies. LOL!
What activities to do you like to do outside of work?
I’m a homebody for the most part, so I like watching movies, reading, cooking and crafting, but I also like a good music concert, too.
What is your favorite quote?
My favorite quote is “Life is short, live it,” and my favorite book is Anything by Patricia Cornwell.