Lookin’ at U – Jenny Kucera

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee. This week, we learn more about Jenny Kucera of the  Institutional Review Board.

• Name: Jenny Kucera
• Hometown: Papillion
• No. of years at UNMC: Four years

Tell us a bit about what you do here at UNMC.
I work as an IRB Administrator and Education Coordinator for the Institutional Review Board (IRB), where our charge is the protection of human subjects participating in research studies. Aside from day-to-day reviews of new studies, changes and continuing reviews, my responsibility within the office is organizing educational opportunities and lecturing on issues related to the IRB. IRB education is tailored to meet the needs of the audience, from high school students to experienced researchers and topics range from the history and ethics of human subject protection to navigating the UNMC IRB process. I also conduct the quality improvement assessments of approved research studies. I also have a fun, but very important, part-time job. I work as a standardized patient for the College of Medicine and the School of Allied Health Professions. I am provided with a patient role and act it out for the students so they can practice their clinical skills. "Leadership" is one of UNMC's brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed an example of leadership at UNMC.
I am fortunate to get to see leadership at work every day in my office. The IRB staff are dedicated to navigating investigators and research staff through the IRB process, from initial submission to data analysis. Ernie Prentice, Ph.D., and Bruce Gordon, M.D., promote innovation, initiative and a facilitatory relationship between the IRB and investigators. The leadership of the IRB staff and Drs. Prentice and Gordon is essential in the efficient management of 2,000-plus active studies with the ultimate focus on the protection of human subjects, investigators and the institution. What is your favorite fall activity?
Hosting our annual pumpkin carving party. List three things people may not know about you.

• Backpacking in Africa was one of the most life-changing things I have ever done.
• I love to crochet! I have a binder full of patterns I want to make.
• I have had a tarantula as a pet since I was in high school.