Leslie Smith
About Leslie Smith
Leslie Smith is the Manager of Strategic Partnership Agreements at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where she has worked since 2021. With over 20 years of experience in research and regulatory work, she possesses expertise in sponsored research agreements and has a strong legal background, having earned her JD from Southern University Law Center.
Work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Leslie Smith currently serves as the Manager of Strategic Partnership Agreements at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. In this role, she has been responsible for managing various strategic partnership agreements since 2021. Her work involves facilitating collaborations that support the laboratory's research initiatives and objectives. Oak Ridge National Laboratory is known for its contributions to scientific research and innovation, and Smith's role is crucial in establishing and maintaining partnerships that enhance these efforts.
Education and Expertise
Leslie Smith holds a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from Southern University Law Center, where she studied from 2007 to 2011. She also earned a Master of Science (MS) in Environmental Studies from Louisiana State University, completing her studies from 1998 to 2004. Her educational background provides her with a strong foundation in legal and environmental issues, particularly in the context of research agreements. Smith possesses expertise in sponsored research agreements, which is essential for her current role.
Background in Legal and Research Fields
Leslie Smith has over 20 years of experience in research, environmental, and regulatory work. Prior to her current position, she worked for 17 years as the Director of Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer at Pennington Biomedical Research Center. Additionally, she served as a Legal Secretary at the Louisiana Department of Justice for six years, specifically in the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and Medical Malpractice. This diverse background has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of both legal and research environments.
Professional Experience Overview
Throughout her career, Leslie Smith has developed a robust skill set in proposal management, encompassing both federal and nonfederal proposals. Her extensive experience in managing strategic partnerships and intellectual property has made her a valuable asset in her current role. Smith's previous positions have provided her with insights into the complexities of legal and regulatory frameworks, further enhancing her capabilities in managing strategic partnership agreements.