Deb Phillis
Director of Office of Undergraduate Research and Studies (OURS)
Education
- BS – Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University Bloomington
- AS – Kelley School of Business, Indiana University Bloomington
Bio
Deb got involved in research as an undergraduate when searching for a work-study position. She was hired into a Drosophila genetics lab and was instantly fascinated; she would work in the field for the next 30 years.
Deb joined the Learning Resource Center in September 2010 where she worked with the newly formed Office of Undergraduate Research and Studies (OURS). In her role as Director of OURS, Deb directly supports UMass Amherst undergraduate students looking for ways to be involved in research. Deb supervises and trains OURS Research Mentors and works with campus partners to help students learn about research and to actively help them find and apply to programs.
A highlight of Deb’s work is meeting with students one-on-one to help guide them to find opportunities that will help them gain skills and knowledge for their future endeavors. Another highlight is being able to work with a team of dedicated OURS research mentors who bring to the office their research experience, information, and personal experiences about the UMass Amherst campus.
When she is not at OURS, Deb enjoys the outdoors and nature.