Meet Mandy Terrill: Guiding UCSF Research IT Toward a Future of Innovation
When Mandy Terrill joined UCSF in 2022, she brought with her a passion for leveraging technology to advance research. As the Associate CIO for Research within Academic Research Services, Mandy plays a pivotal role in overseeing and supporting IT services that drive the university's research mission forward. But who is Mandy, and what makes her such a key player in UCSF’s tech landscape?
The Tech Trailblazer’s Origin Story
Before arriving at UCSF, Mandy honed her expertise working with Marion Hakason, a manager and direct report at Oregon Health Sciences University, her previous institution. “Marion taught me everything about system administration and high-performance computing,” Mandy recalls. “But more than that, he’s a thoughtful, amazing manager who showed me what it means to lead with integrity.” Inspired by these lessons, Mandy has carved her own path in the ever-evolving world of research IT.
Excitement in the Air: Building the Facility for Advanced Computing
For Mandy, UCSF is a hotbed of innovation, particularly in Research IT. One initiative she’s especially thrilled about? The Facility for Advanced Computing (FAC). This groundbreaking project will provide researchers with access to cost-effective storage, compute capabilities, and high-performance computing tools.
“I’ve been working on this for two years with my team and other IT teams,” Mandy shares. “Seeing this go live is like watching a dream come true. It’s a game-changer for UCSF researchers.”
AI on the Horizon
When it comes to technological advancements, Mandy has her eyes on the rise of AI tools. She’s excited about the potential for AI integration to revolutionize UCSF’s systems. “The strides in AI tools are incredible,” she says. “The key is preparing for these changes by staying adaptable and embracing innovation.”
Words of Wisdom: Stay Curious
What advice does Mandy have for colleagues aspiring to grow in technology, either at UCSF or beyond? “Be curious,” she advises. “Ask questions of the leaders around you and find out how they got to where they are today.” Her advice reflects her own journey—one fueled by curiosity, mentorship, and an eagerness to learn.
A Future of Possibilities
As Mandy continues to guide UCSF’s Research IT initiatives, her leadership and vision promise to make a lasting impact. Whether she’s championing the FAC project, exploring the possibilities of AI, or mentoring the next generation of tech enthusiasts, Mandy Terrill is a beacon of inspiration for UCSF and beyond.
Keep an eye on the horizon—under Mandy’s guidance, the future of research IT at UCSF looks brighter than ever!
The photo below is of Mandy with her husband and son at a Giants game, which she loves attending with her family.
