Robert Hackman moves into scientific ombudsperson position

Brief

For Dr. Robert Hackman, stepping into the role of scientific ombudsperson is a natural transition. It is a chance, he said, to grow in an area that has become a rewarding aspect of his work as director of pathology for the Center's Clinical Research Division and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA) — listening to and helping others.

"Basically, I have enjoyed that sort of thing in the past and now here's an opportunity to focus more directly on it and get some specialized training, so it made sense," Hackman said.

Hackman, also director of the clinical laboratories at the SCCA, joined the pathology department after finishing his residency training at the University of Washington. He finds life at the Center as fascinating today as it was 28 years ago.

"It's such an exciting place and such outstanding people populate it. The combination of the mission, the nature of the work, and the other people involved create a fabulous experience. I get up in the morning and I can't wait to get here — every day."

Hackman will continue leading the pathology department and the clinical laboratories while evolving the job of scientific ombudsperson — a half-time position, created in 2004 and first held by Dr. Nancy Haigwood. After two years, Haigwood is again devoting herself full time to her research.

Office hours

As ombudsperson, Hackman will work to resolve conflicts among faculty, scientific staff and trainees, and promote collegial interactions and a collaborative work environment at the Center, as well as between the Center and other institutions. He will be regularly available five days a week, two hours a day — currently between noon and 2 p.m. — in the Ombudsperson Office in the Arnold Building (M1-B845). The remainder of his time is open for appointments arranged through e-mail at ombuds@fhcrc.org. Details are not required in an e-mailed appointment request.

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