In January 2022, the University of Tennessee Research Foundation welcomed new team member Connor Perryman. Perryman, a recent doctoral graduate from UT, joins UTRF as its newest Assistant Technology Manager, where he will work with innovators from UT-Knoxville.
Perryman, a Tennessee native, graduated from UT with his Ph.D. in polymer chemistry in December 2021. His doctoral research focused on additive manufacturing processes – a knowledge base that will help him in his new role.
It is an advantage to have a background in science, especially if you are working in material science and engineering,” said Perryman. “I think I will be bringing those skills along with me in terms of understanding what our innovators are bringing to the table and what we can give to potential licensees.”
Perryman developed a love of science from a young age, eventually choosing to pursue an undergraduate degree in chemistry at Austin Peay State University. He is thankful for the supportive ecosystem at UT that both helped facilitate opportunities during his academic education and helped him secure a position at UTRF. He refers to applying for his current position as “serendipity” after receiving an email from his department about the open job.
I am thankful I came across that email,” said Perryman. “Besides the fascinating technology that I am working with, I also enjoy working with the people. We have a good team of folks here. Everybody works hard and knows how to have a good time and still maintain a good work-life balance. And that was a key, integral part of why I wanted to have this job.”
Transitioning from academia to UTRF has been an “entirely different world” for Perryman. Though he doesn’t have a background in tech transfer work, he looks forward to learning about new types of technologies and experiencing the wide variety of learning opportunities available in a tech transfer office.
When you are working on a Ph.D., it’s like you are essentially digging a hole that is 10 feet deep and two feet wide,” said Perryman, referencing advice he received from UTRF Vice President Maha Krishnamurthy. “When you are utilizing technology transfer, you have to dig very small holes and a wide range of them, even in areas you have never heard of before. I find that fascinating.”
When he’s not at work, Perryman is a self-described “homebody” and enjoys spending time with his best friend working on motorcycles. He received his motorcycle license late last year and hopes to purchase a motorcycle for himself soon.
The UTRF team is growing. We are so pleased to have the opportunity to welcome a new Assistant Technology Manager to support UTRF’s mission,” said Krishnamurthy. “Connor brings key expertise to our work, making him an asset for evaluating new innovations and working with UT innovators.”