Allyson Fess is the Director of Research for the Department of Neurology at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Her journey in the department began almost a decade ago as an undergraduate student office assistant. After graduation, she worked her way up, transitioning first to a full-time bookkeeper, staff accountant, and then senior accountant. Fess joined the executive board of the Emerging Leaders in 2020.
She started as Director of Research in January 2021. In her current role, she manages a team of research administrators and staff accountants supporting a portfolio of more than $80 million in funding from federal, state, non-profit, foundation, and industry sponsors.
Fess’ passion for supporting the field of Neurology is deeply personal: she carries the memory of her grandfather, who passed away after a battle with Parkinson’s disease, close to her heart. Fess says that the most rewarding part of her position is the link between her work and improved outcomes for patients like her grandfather.
Educating early career researchers on best research proposal development, submission, and management ultimately leads to more awards and more funding. In turn, this funding builds a culture of financial resiliency in the department that positively impacts patients by providing access to novel drugs and therapies and enhances overall Neurologic care and outcomes in both our region and globally.
Fess’ favorite piece of advice is “give yourself grace,” and she certainly brings ample grace and kindness to her work at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Fess enjoys doting on her tropical fish in her spare time, adding to her collection of 100+ houseplants, and hunting for antiques.
