Posted on September 5, 2025 by College of Sciences
#StaffSpotlight
Leslie Neely, Ph.D., Assistant Dean for Transdisciplinary Research Development, College of Sciences Office of the Dean
What did your journey to UTSA look like?
I was born and raised in San Antonio and attended Incarnate Word High School (go Shamrocks). After high school, I studied civil engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. I worked as an engineer for a few years post-graduation but my life took a sharp turn when I learned about Behavior Analysis (my current field of study). As a quantitative person, I was drawn to the field because of the scientific, data-based, rigorous approach to improving the lives of people with disabilities. The disability population has always had a place in my heart, but I didn't quite find the right field until I found Behavior Analysis. I immediately retired from engineering and pursued my master's and doctorate in Behavior Analysis. After I graduated from Texas A&M University a job opened up in my hometown! I couldn't believe it because it is so rare to get an academic position in a location you want to live in. I have been so grateful to spend 10 years here at UTSA working my dream job, and contributing to improving the San Antonio community for the disability population.
What do you enjoy most about your area of study?
I love that it bridges science and human services. I am able to dream up research projects that have a direct impact on the human experience. I am also constantly learning through my research.
What are some of the most notable research projects that you've been involved in?
I have a research project right now I've been working on since before the pandemic. It's focused on leveraging advanced AI technologies to assist in identifying, classifying, and triaging autistic patients engaging in severe behavior. As part of this work, we've also been working with first responders and training them on how to de-escalate crises situations. This entire line of work is not only technically challenging but deeply meaningful, with the potential to improve safety and outcomes for some of the most vulnerable members of our community
What is your proudest moment with the College of Sciences?
Since I just joined COS in January, my proud moments are yet to come. However, I look forward to contributing to our culture of interdisciplinary collaboration, supporting faculty innovation, and building bridges between COS and our partners across UTSA and beyond
Describe your new leadership role and how it will help support students, faculty, and/or staff in COS
As Assistant Dean of Transdisciplinary Research, I serve as a bridge between departments, colleges, and community partners to foster collaborative research that goes beyond traditional boundaries. My role is focused on building strategic partnerships, supporting faculty in securing research funding, and creating new opportunities for students to engage in innovative, hands-on projects with impact.
What are you most looking forward to in this new role?
I'm excited about the opportunity to shape bold, forward-thinking research initiatives that span disciplines and institutions. This role provides a platform to connect people and ideas in new ways, especially with the integration of UT Health, and that kind of innovation is what energizes me. I want to foster partnerships that don't just advance science, but also serve our community in meaningful ways.
How would you spend your ideal Saturday?
Ideally? My Saturday starts with coffee on the porch, followed by a relaxed breakfast with my family. We might spend time in the yard, go for a hike, or explore a local park, anything that gets us moving and outside together. I also love traveling so any day spent traveling and exploring new locations is a good day.
What are your book recommendations?
I have a million book recommendations. I love reading. I will just share the latest one that I really enjoyed, but I am always happy to talk about books with anyone who is interested. I just read 11/22/63, a historical fiction novel written about the JFK assassination. It was quite a beast of a novel, but I really enjoyed the detailed description of "typical" life in the mid-60s. It also had a bit of mystery, which is my second favorite genre.
— College of Sciences
