Representative of ICPSR: Paula Lackie
Meet Paula, an ICPSR Representative and Carleton College’s Academic Technologist for Data. Her journey with ICPSR began in the late ’80s at an OR meeting and helped her realize she could turn her passion for research data into a career. When she’s not supporting her campus or enjoying the welcoming ICPSR community, Paula loves to travel, connect with data-loving friends, and unwind with the Empire podcast, proving that even with severe dyscalculia, sharp logic, and curiosity will always win the day.
Where do you work and what is your job title?
Carleton College Academic Technologist for Data
What is a favorite memory or instance you have working with ICPSR? What makes ICPSR a great place?
I found my people at my first ICPSR OR meeting in … probably 1989-ish. I was a graduate student and the OR for USC – but with the support from ICPSR to attend the OR meeting, I could just barely swing the cost. I’m so glad that I did! I attended Chuck Humphrey’s little workshop on being an OR and the realization that I could do this work for a living was such a relief! ICPSR is a great place because of the longstanding dedication to supporting the responsible reuse of research data.
Where are you from?
Minnesota
What is your favorite part of working with ICPSR?
The open and welcoming community.
What’s one ICPSR dataset you find fascinating, unusual, or you’ve had a hand in getting deposited?
I cut my teeth on the American National Election Study (ANES). It remains my “favorite” though I have encountered so many fantastic resources while supporting my campus with data.
How long have you worked with ICPSR?
A really long time.
What do you do when not at work?
I like to travel! Often it has involved visiting data-related friends around the world.
What have you read/viewed/listened to/etc. recently?
I have been enjoying Empire, a podcast by William Dalrymple and Anita Anand
What might surprise us about you?
I have some severe dyscalculia but am pretty sound with logic.
Thanks, Paula!
Want to join our team?
Interested in being featured?
Representatives, data depositors, and other members of the ICPSR community are invited to fill out a 10-minute questionnaire (choose the one appropriate to your role): Representatives & Friends form, Depositors form, Researchers form, and Staff form. Please note that submission does not guarantee selection.