Patrick Brandt, PhD

“Patrick consistently leads with quiet professionalism, is a dedicated team member, and is an expert communicator -- from one-on-one interactions with trainees or coworkers, to organizing/facilitating small group meetings, to presenting an interacting with large groups. On more than a dozen occasions we have co-presented, and together we have planned and executed nearly 100 events. I can say with certainty that Patrick is an outstanding collaborator: organized and thoughtful, but always ready to flex as the situation or event evolves. He knows the value of building a program over time with a vision that he steadily works to achieve, yet he is never stuck in the past. Patrick is always open to new ideas, looking for the next innovation—for example, creating and single-handedly leading the new ImPACT Internship Program, a partnership between UNC and local companies, organizations, and institutions resulting in nearly 50 trainees pursuing internships over the past two years. Most importantly, Patrick is an excellent mentor, teammate, and supervisor. He is committed to selflessly pursuing the best for the team, for example encouraging the development of subordinates to help them succeed and excel by suggesting training, conferences, and additional opportunities to expand their skills—which I have experienced firsthand. Patrick has a forthright honest character, he never shies away from deep analysis and reflection of both himself and others. For instance despite having well-honed skills and extensive experience, on numerous occasions I have seen Patrick pursue, organize, and take part in additional training events to expand his own skill set to better serve trainees. His unique brand of humility and courageous leadership is hard to find; this is a leader that any team would be lucky to have, and one who has fundamentally changed the landscape of professional development at UNC.”

“Patrick excels in every aspect of his position as Director of Science, Training, and Diversity at UNC. I relied heavily on Patrick’s expertise throughout my graduate career and he never disappointed. In addition to his invaluable help with C.V.’s, cover letters, and networking, he was a constant source of knowledge and guidance when it came to making wise career choices. Patrick has had a prompt, thorough, helpful, and insightful answer to every career question I have asked over the last year, and there have been many. It is obvious after just a few minutes spent with Patrick that he genuinely loves his work, and that he is devoted to helping graduate students in the biomedical sciences make the most of their lives and careers. If you are apprehensive about that first step after graduate school, and don’t know where to start, consult with Patrick. Before you know it you have made that first step, and every decision you make thereafter will be better for it.”