Congratulations to Kira Duncan, post-award administrator in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health (EOH), who received the Innovator Award from Pitt’s Health Sciences Research Administration Recognition Awards program. The honor celebrates staff who develop creative, efficient solutions that strengthen research operations across the University.
Since joining the department in 2023, Duncan has led major improvements in research administration, including guiding the transition from the department’s shadow accounting system to the University’s Fiscal Panther/PBCS system, a new platform that supports budgeting and financial planning across Pitt. Her thoughtful approach streamlined financial processes, improved accuracy and made life a little easier for researchers and staff alike.
Duncan also shared her expertise by developing and leading Fiscal Panther/PBCS training sessions for colleagues across the School of Public Health, helping build confidence and consistency in using the new system.
“Her ability to restructure workflows, mentor staff and introduce practical solutions has not only improved efficiency but has also enhanced morale and retention within the department,” said EOH Department Chair Sally Wenzel. “Kira embodies the very qualities this award celebrates. She is a problem-solver, team-builder and forward-thinking leader who has had a transformative impact in a short time.”
Matthew Weaver, department administrator, echoed that sentiment. “Kira’s innovative solutions have made our department more effective in managing sponsored programs,” he said. “Her adaptability, collaboration and commitment to improving systems have had a positive, schoolwide impact.”
Duncan was one of five staff members across Pitt and UPMC honored by the Health Sciences Research Administration during its Recognition Awards ceremony on October 13.
-Clare Collins
