Virtual Research Administration Conference - Workshops

The "theory of everything" (TOE) is a hypothetical theory studied in physics; its intent is to fully explain and link together all known physical phenomena. The Introduction to Research Law workshop is similar to TOE in that it attempts to explain and link together all known issues of research administration. Legal issues arise throughout research, starting with intellectual property issues, continuing through contract and grant matters and living on in post research licensing, "derivative works disputes" and post-clinical trial liability questions. This workshop is for new research administrators who need a "boot camp" approach to recognizing the legal issues that they will face daily.

Content Level: Basic 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify legal issues associated with research and research administration.
2. Work with counsel and others to address legal issues in all aspects of research.

Speaker(s): Mike Slocum, President, Slocum & Boddie, Distinguished Faculty, Sandy Justice, Director, Research Development Institute, University of South Florida, Timothy Gehret, Associate Director, Georgia State University, Emily Njus, Senior Consultant, Attain Partners

**Required workshop for Research Law Certificate **

In an era of rapid innovation, evolving compliance demands, and increasing public scrutiny, today’s research administrators must lead with integrity, agility, and vision. This interactive workshop explores the intersection of leadership development, organizational strategy, and research ethics. Participants will dive into real-world case studies—from HeLa cells to data-driven corporate experiments—while gaining actionable insights into creating ethical, inclusive, and high-performing research environments. Designed for current and aspiring leaders, this session equips attendees with practical tools for navigating gray areas, fostering institutional trust, and championing responsible research practices across boundaries.

Content Level: Intermediate to Advanced
(Ideal for mid-career professionals, managers, and leaders in research administration seeking to elevate their strategic, ethical, and leadership competencies.)

Learning Objectives:

1. Apply modern leadership frameworks to effectively influence and support research initiatives within and beyond their institutions.
2. Evaluate ethical challenges in research using contemporary case studies, identifying gaps in consent, communication, and oversight.
3. Integrate stewardship and integrity principles into daily research administration practices and policy-making.
4. Navigate complex compliance and governance structures to ensure transparency, accountability, and trust.
5. Develop strategies for mentoring and succession planning to build a resilient, ethical, and future-ready research administration workforce.

Speaker(s): Rashonda Harris, Adjunct Faculty Member, John's Hopkins University, Judy Bristow

**Required workshop for Practice of Research Administration and Management Certificate **

The "theory of everything" (TOE) is a hypothetical theory studied in physics; its intent is to fully explain and link together all known physical phenomena. The Introduction to Research Law workshop is similar to TOE in that it attempts to explain and link together all known issues of research administration. Legal issues arise throughout research, starting with intellectual property issues, continuing through contract and grant matters and living on in post research licensing, "derivative works disputes" and post-clinical trial liability questions. This workshop is for new research administrators who need a "boot camp" approach to recognizing the legal issues that they will face daily.

Content Level: Basic 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify legal issues associated with research and research administration.
2. Work with counsel and others to address legal issues in all aspects of research.

Speaker(s): Mike Slocum, President, Slocum & Boddie, Distinguished Faculty, Sandy Justice, Director, Research Development Institute, University of South Florida, Timothy Gehret, Associate Director, Georgia State University, Emily Njus, Senior Consultant, Attain Partners

**Required workshop for Research Law Certificate **