January 2024 Spotlight: Jackie O’Neil

Jackie O’Neil, Associate Director, Strategic Research Operations & Outsourcing at MOMA Therapeutics, has been involved in various NESACS volunteer roles since 2010.  Jackie is the Chair, German Exchange Committee and the 2024 NESACS Secretary-Elect.  

In this Member Volunteer Spotlight, learn more how Jackie became involved in volunteering as part of ACS, opportunities for mentorship, and advice to others interested in volunteering.

How did you become involved in this volunteer opportunity / position (including details regarding application / interview process if applicable)?

I’ve been involved in planning and hosting the German Exchange Committee in several different capacities for the past 10 years, first through participation as a host in the local Younger Chemists Committee, and then formally joining the planning committee for the first time. I’m so passionate about connecting scientists internationally because I believe that we have so much to learn from our international colleagues. I’ve also helped plan and host a sister program called the Younger Chemists Crossing Borders, which was an exchange program with the European Younger Chemist’s Network from 2015-2018.

For this volunteer opportunity / position did you have a mentor and/or do you serve as a mentor to others participants in this program? 

Since first joining the committee in 2013, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from many incredible founders & leaders we’ve had: Mike Strem, Mort Hoffman, Ruth Tanner, Tom Gilbert, and countless others, including Lori Ferrins, who is leveraging her experience as the past NERM Chair into the large-scale planning needed for this program.

What has been the most rewarding / exciting component of this volunteer opportunity / position?

My favorite part of this position is having the opportunity to meet amazing young scientists early in their careers and then see their future growth. It’s clear that this program exposes early career chemists in our Section and in Germany to the power of international collaborations.

What advice would you give to other individuals considering this volunteer opportunity / position?

Come join us! We are planning for our 25th anniversary and we’re looking for additional volunteers to help fundraise and plan for the next great 25 years and beyond! Volunteering is a great way to grow your network and develop new skills. If you’re interested or want to find out more, email me at gex@nesacs.org.