Framing Impact Through Evaluation
Amelia Bucek fuses public health experience with collaborative approach to data
Whether Amelia Bucek is hard at work designing a novel survey or taking a deep dive into grant metrics, there remains a single goal: Make the data matter.
As director of evaluation at Northwestern’s Clinical and Translational Sciences (NUCATS) Institute, Bucek helps bridge the gap between data and impact, helping to prove how research can translate into advantageous real-world outcomes and lasting change.
“I work with our project teams to define, collect, and analyze metrics that demonstrate our impact and identify areas for improvement,” Bucek says. “The Institute’s mission is to advance translational science, and evaluation plays a key role in framing how the vast array of NUCATS resources, services, and research coalesce to meet this goal.”
A background in public health adds a valuable lens to her work — one that is rooted in applicable outcomes beyond academic publications. Before joining NUCATS, Bucek contributed heavily to research and implementation programs focused on reproductive health, HIV, maternal and infant health, and disability.
Learning something new happens most days for me, and with dozens of active projects, there is no shortage of new information.”
“My outlook is always attuned toward how our initiatives will engage and improve the lives of people outside of academia. I have had the privilege of learning from numerous colleagues and principal investigators over the years, and I’m happy to continue on that path at NUCATS,” she says.
On any given day, Bucek may be advising on survey design, synthesizing findings for progress reports, or collaborating on data infrastructure improvements. A successful day is measured by more than checking off tasks; to Bucek, the best shifts add value through continued learning.
“It’s pretty meta to ask an evaluator how they measure their own success!” Bucek says. “I feel the most successful when I’ve learned something new and added value to one of our projects. Learning something new happens most days for me, and with dozens of active projects, there is no shortage of new information.”
There’s a really strong team at NUCATS, and I love being around smart, dedicated people. The leadership and staff engagement groups do a great job of keeping it fun — why not have a potluck or enjoy some pie on Pi Day? ”
What excites her most is the opportunity to collaborate with other evaluators across the Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program to align efforts and explore advanced avenues for demonstrating impact. Just as important is the joy of being part of a supportive, engaged team.
“There’s a really strong team at NUCATS, and I love being around smart, dedicated people,” Bucek says. “The leadership and staff engagement groups do a great job of keeping it fun — why not have a potluck or enjoy some pie on Pi Day?”
Originally from Queens, New York, Bucek now lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with her husband and two sons. On weekends, you’ll likely find them exploring the city’s museums, hiking through forest preserves, or hanging out with animals at the Brookfield zoo. The family also has a tradition of spring break road trips to various Midwest cities — most recently, Minneapolis.
Beyond her professional role, Bucek volunteers with a community-based organization that provides inclusive, age-appropriate sexuality education to youth — and recently joined its board: “If you have a child in elementary or middle school, feel free to reach out,” Bucek says. “I’d be happy to share more.”
Her advice for newcomers to the field of evaluation is simple: “Stay curious and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” And what’s one thing she wishes more people knew about her role?
“Evaluators are here to help you advance your mission — but collaboration is key.”
Written by Alex Miranda
