Andrea McDowell, PhD

A neurodivergent, Pacific Northwest native, I practice integrated leadership in mindfully balancing my personal/professional life. I currently serve as Western Washington University's Human Research Protections Program Administrator, where I'm developing new guidelines, policies, and forms for the review and approval of human participant research in line with federal regulations and best ethical practices. I also collaborate with the Vice Provost of Research and other campus leaders to discuss and set expectations for enhancing a culture of research integrity at WWU. I regularly teach Business Communication and Editing for the Seattle University Albers School of Business and Economics. Before joining WWU, I served as SU Institutional Review Board Administrator for 12 years.



Using expert communication and problem-solving skills, I seek to develop collaborative practices and robust working relationships. With transferable leadership strategies from 30+ years of experience and expertise in all realms of communication/editing, I can effectively reach key audiences, build stronger community, and increase professional satisfaction and productivity. I help organizations develop policies, streamline SOPs, conduct educational outreach, and increase efficiencies while boosting morale, and enhancing cultural diversity. I also present regularly at regional and national conferences on ethical protections for human participants in research.