For more than a decade, Geeta Chhabra has supported research efforts at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Department of Pediatrics. As a Research Grants Manager, Chhabra works closely with faculty and staff to ensure grant submissions are accurate, timely and compliant.
Chhabra says a combination of meaningful work and strong professional relationships has made her time at UAB especially rewarding.
“I enjoy what I do and it gives me a lot of satisfaction helping the faculty to prepare grant submissions,” said Chhabra. “At the end of the day, I feel great when I have been of assistance to the faculty as their grant is submitted in a timely manner.”
In her role, Chhabra communicates regularly with faculty, financial officers and personnel in the Office of Sponsored Programs to coordinate submissions. Prior to joining the Department of Pediatrics, she spent 15 years in the Office of Sponsored Programs, where she reviewed and submitted grants for more than 20 departments across campus.
That experience continues to shape her work today, allowing her to guide faculty and staff through the grant process while maintaining strong connections across campus.
One accomplishment Chhabra is especially proud of is the path that led her back to UAB. After retiring in December 2013, she returned in 2014 to join the Department of Pediatrics, where she has continued to apply her expertise in grants management.
“Since then, I have been working with both faculty and staff to submit error-free grant applications to sponsoring institutions,” said Chhabra. “I have maintained a great working relationship with my previous office, which is a blessing at all times.”
Outside of work, Chhabra recommends El Barrio as a favorite local spot.
Through her experience and dedication, Chhabra continues to support faculty and advance research efforts across the department.