Sophie Harper
Lead Domestic Regulatory Affairs Specialist
School of Medicine
1. Please introduce yourself and describe your role at UMB.
My name is Sophie Harper, and I have been a part of the University of Maryland, Baltimore community for the past six years. I currently serve as the Lead Domestic Regulatory Affairs Specialist at the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD) within the School of Medicine. In my role, I coordinate and support a variety of clinical trials focused on infectious diseases and vaccine development, working closely with investigators, study teams, and participants to ensure high-quality research and compliance with regulatory standards. In addition to my primary responsibilities, I am an active member of the CVD Social Committee and a participant in the Emerging Leaders Program, which has further strengthened my commitment to collaboration, professional development, and service to the UMB community.
2. Why are you interested in serving on the Staff Senate?
I am interested in serving on the Staff Senate because I am passionate about contributing to a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking work environment at UMB. As someone who has benefited from mentorship, collaboration, and professional development opportunities here, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to give back to the broader campus community. Serving on the Staff Senate would allow me to amplify the voices of staff members, advocate for positive change, and support initiatives that enhance employee engagement and well-being. I am particularly interested in building stronger connections across departments, promoting staff recognition, and helping ensure that UMB continues to be a place where all employees feel valued and empowered.
3. What do you hope to accomplish during your term?
During my term on the Staff Senate, I hope to be an active voice for staff across the university, working to ensure that their perspectives and needs are heard and addressed. I aim to contribute to initiatives that promote professional growth, equity, and staff appreciation. Specifically, I would like to advocate for more accessible development opportunities, support programs that enhance work-life balance - especially for working parents - and help foster a culture of open communication and collaboration. Additionally, I view this opportunity as a way to continue growing personally and professionally by strengthening my communication and leadership skills through meaningful engagement with colleagues across the university. By building connections and leading with empathy and purpose, I hope to help create a more inclusive and engaged UMB community.
4. Describe your hobbies and interests outside of work.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, especially exploring the world through the eyes of my energetic two-year-old son. I love being outdoors—whether it’s hiking, walking in nature, or visiting local parks—which helps me recharge and stay grounded. I’m also an avid reader and enjoy diving into a wide range of books, from fiction to personal development. These moments of connection and reflection outside of work help fuel my creativity, curiosity, and sense of balance.
