Almesha L. Campbell, Ph.D. is an exemplary leader in research, technology transfer, innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development, particularly within the academic realm.
She is the Assistant Vice President for Research and Economic Development at Jackson State University (JSU).
Dr. Campbell has secured federal grants and contracts for innovation and entrepreneurship programs, amassing approximately $12M since 2016. Her pivotal role as principal investigator or co-principal investigator for various federally funded programs, such as the National Science Foundation Mid-South I-Corps Hub, Accelerating Research Translation, and Engines Development Award programs, and the National Institutes of Health Mid-South REACH Hub, underscores her commitment to advancing research translation and promoting underrepresented minorities' participation in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Her influence transcends the university setting, as evidenced by her historic appointment as the chair of the AUTM Board of Directors (2023 – 2024), making her the first black person and the first representative from a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to hold such a position. She is a member of professional organizations like the Licensing Executives Society, the Society of Research Administrators (SRA) International, and the National Academy of Inventors where she is an honorary member.