Joey Sassaman is the new research integrity officer (RIO) in the Division of Research. She investigates allegations of research misconduct at UNLV.

As a self-proclaimed “rule follower," Sassaman says this is the perfect position for her personality. At home, however, she admits rules take a backseat when it comes to dealing with Lolli, Jack, and Larry, her three fur babies. Sassaman is a fervent animal lover and is passionate about volunteering in the Las Vegas community. 

Tell me about your job.

My job is an interesting one. Being the RIO, I work with researchers across campus. I am always here for them if they have questions about any aspect of conducting research. I look into all research misconduct allegations, including falsification, fabrication, or plagiarism in proposing, performing, and reviewing research results.

I like to create a comfortable setting for people to be able to call me or stop by my office in FDH with their concerns or questions. I will also be revising policies and procedures, processes, and leading Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training. RCR training covers the fundamentals that govern the practice of research. 

What inspires you in your job? 

I am a rule follower and I have been since I was a little girl. I knew I wanted to do something that would directly or indirectly help people. Prior to coming to UNLV, I worked for hospitals and health insurance companies in the roles of compliance officer, director of operations, and director of risk management. For the most part, all of my positions have centered on ensuring that rules were being followed. 

How can people at UNLV report alleged misconduct? 

There are several ways to contact me:

• Call me at 702-895-5948.
• Email me at joey.sassaman@unlv.edu.
• Email the Office of Research Integrity at ORI@unlv.edu.
• Or if you’d like to report alleged misconduct anonymously, you can do so online.

I like to encourage people to connect with me by one of the ways listed above to discuss a concern, even if they are not sure they want to report an incident. 

What was your career prior to coming to UNLV? 

I attended Queens College in Queens, New York. I have an economics degree, and I have been in the health care industry for more than 17 years. 

I started in New York City, where I grew up, working for large health systems, hospitals, and insurance companies. I have successfully led and managed compliance and regulatory affairs for various hospitals, health plans, and nonprofit organizations, and ensured adherence to federal and state laws. I also have experience leading the IRB and working with clinical research departments in a hospital setting. 

When I was young, my dream job was to work on the stock exchange in NYC. After college, I had a job at a consulting company where I was licensed to buy and sell stocks. However, once I was on the stock exchange floor, I realized it wasn’t the job I thought it would be. Once my “dream” job disappeared, I pivoted into the health care industry, and I haven’t looked back. 

Tell us about something you find special at UNLV.

I was fortunate to learn about OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) at UNLV last year. The program is a learning community for retired and semi-retired adults and all the classes are led by volunteers. Last year, I taught a class called, “Technology in 2023,” where I taught the students how to navigate the latest technology trends, including smart phones.

It bothers me that society is forcing our senior generation to adapt to technology that they are not comfortable using. For example, asking my dad, who is 76, to scan a QR Code is like expecting someone to learn a completely new language with no help. 

The class was wonderful! The students appreciated becoming more familiar with technology that they had heard about but didn’t understand until attending my class. I plan to teach a similar class every semester for as long as I can. 

Tell me about your passions outside of work

A few years ago, I joined the CARE Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing public awareness of the effects of drug and alcohol abuse by educating the community. How can Las Vegas have so much money, yet we have large numbers of people with mental health issues and drug and alcohol addictions living in tents or under boxes?

This past year I became the board president for the CARE Coalition. If we can help just one person at a time, we are making a difference. 

What is your favorite trait? 

I am loyal. 

You are a big supporter of animal causes. Why? 

Animals cannot speak up or defend themselves so I feel they need a voice. All three of my dogs are from animal rescue facilities called Pawsitive Difference and Second Chance Animal Rescue. I can’t imagine what would have happened to them if they weren’t rescued.  I don’t think people realize just how much the Animal Rescues do for our homeless, sick, surrendered, and abused animals. 

Personally, one of the reasons I love animals so much is because they give you unconditional love and are automatic door bells! Each of my dogs has its own personality and I’m so thankful they all get along and love each other. 

If I could have one wish, it would be to have unlimited funding and open an animal sanctuary in Las Vegas. 

What brought you from NYC to Las Vegas? 

My parents retired in 2007 and moved to Las Vegas from New York. In 2017, they finally convinced me to move here to be closer to family. Soon after, I met my husband, got married, and now Las Vegas is my home for good!

What was your biggest misconception about Las Vegas before you moved here? 

My biggest misconception was thinking Vegas is 24/7 glitz and glam. However, living here you quickly realize that only really applies to the Las Vegas Strip and that Vegas is actually a small, supportive community. 

What is the best part of working at UNLV? 

I get to meet and work with a diverse group of people and see firsthand how great our university is!