Reata Busby: Helping UNT obtain research funding

Reata Busby, associate vice provost for research, is an avid reader — a handy skill, considering the fact that reading and reviewing grant applications are among her daily duties. But her work does not end there.

The office she leads works to build strong partnerships with outside organizations while adhering to government and university policies.

Representing the university in numerous research-related professional fields, Busby and the research staff work to ensure that faculty receive the best opportunity for obtaining grants and funding.

"Our office is the business liaison between the university and any outside entity that sponsors research and other programs," Busby says. The research office assists faculty in obtaining funding for projects that help make UNT an academic success.

Busby's past experiences have laid a solid foundation for her current success. She has held similar positions at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of New Mexico.

She fondly remembers one program she worked with while at UAB that enabled master of public administration students to complete their degrees while working in HUD facilities.

"I'm happy about my contribution," Busby says. "It was a lot of fun, and I still stay in touch with most of the graduates who now hold responsible positions in organizations such as the FBI, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HUD and state government."

Busby is now celebrating her third anniversary at UNT. Her work is done behind the scenes, but it does not go unnoticed.

"Reata has brought a high degree of professionalism to the Office of Research Services," says Art Goven, interim vice provost for research. "Her experience and leadership are a great resource to the university as we move to a new level of extramural funding."

One of the great things about working for UNT, Busby says, is the opportunity the university has for growth.

"We are at a crossroads. I look forward to being a part of UNT's success as a research institution."

Besides being dedicated to her work, Busby also enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, reading and attending music festivals. She plans to visit the Seattle Bumbershoot Music Festival next year.

Busby enjoys all kinds of music. "There is no telling what you may hear playing at my house," she says. "On any day you could hear blues, reggae, folk, world, hip-hop, bluegrass or something on an independent label. I'm always looking for new music."

BY WILLIAM ABERCROMBIE paiswri2@unt.edu

Other featured articles in this issue:

• UNT, Denton remember Sept. 11
• UNT study: Private businesses played vital role in WTC disaster response
• Regents rename Administration Building for Hurleys; approve emeritus appointments
• UNT regents approve fee increases, plans to build new residence hall
• UNT scientist: Spraying, prevention are key to killing West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes
• UNT creates electronic conferencing laboratory
• Food, services conveniently located in UNT's University Union
• Chinese cuisine served in Campus Chat Food Court
• Disaster Education Day at UNT Sept. 13

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