Outstanding Project Manager of 2023 - David Price, Ph.D.

BALSA is proud to recognize David Price, Ph.D. as the Outstanding Project Manager of the 2023!

David is originally from Mt. Vernon, IL and received his BS from the University of Evansville in Indiana and his Ph.D. from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL. He is currently a postdoc in the Department of Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases at WashU where he studies host/pathogen interactions of negative sense RNA viruses to elucidate viral pathogenesis and immune evasion mechanisms. In his free time, David plays golf, cooks, hikes, and bicycles. He also watches the Cardinals and Blues, plays boardgames, and enjoys wine tasting.

David was previously Outstanding Consultant of the Spring Quarter, we caught back up with David to learn about his experience as a Project Manager (PM) and what becoming an PM has opened up for his future plans.

As you’ve navigated the transition from BALSA Consultant to PM over the past year, what has surprised you the most about becoming a PM?
As a PM, I felt an increased responsibility for meeting the client’s expectations and a close connection to the overall project. I enjoyed the experience and felt pride for the team’s work. The organization is filled with outstanding members and being in a position of leadership among them has been truly humbling.

What did you find were the most helpful resources in your first project as a PM?
The advisors. My first project was with Erica Ely followed by Kara Donovan and Leah Mellett. They are incredibly talented individuals who care for the organization and pay close attention to their projects. Their support was instrumental in the success of the projects, and I leaned heavily on their thoughts and recommendations. I hope to emulate their work if given the opportunity to be in their position.

What have you learned so far through your time as a Project Manager, that you would not have learned as a consultant?
Focusing on the bigger picture and overall goals of the project have been new and challenging. As a PM, you must drive the project through prioritization, delegation, and creativity. These are rewarding experiences that are complementary to the roles you play as a consultant.

What do you envision your career to be in 3-5 years and how do you think being a BALSA Project Manger has helped advance you to reach your goal?
In 5 years, I will have transitioned into a new career that is currently unknown to me. The known is that communication, teamwork, strategy, leadership, and productivity will be aspects of the role. In addition to the value one brings to projects and BALSA as a whole, being a PM is also a valuable training experience in these critical areas that are relevant to every potential career path. In the future, I also hope to be able to speak to people in my current position and provide advice and resources that allow them to better navigate the transition from grad school/postdoc to their desired career path. I hope to have a positive impact on individuals I interact with, and the best way I can imagine paying back the individuals who have helped me along the way, is to pay it forward when I am in their shoes.