Ravinder Rai

Ravinder Rai

Ravinder Rai
Manager of Office of Research Data Management

What is your role at UCLA?

I am in my 5th year at UCLA and 13th in the UC system. Currently, I am the Manager of Office of Research Data Management.

What is your role at UCLA?  I am in my 5th year at UCLA and 13th in the UC system.  Currently, I am the Manager of Office of Research Data Management.

Before joining UCLA, What was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

I use to be a meter reader for Southern California Gas company. I carried a plastic stick with a tennis ball at the end in case I ever got attacked by a dog.

What’s your favorite aspect of your job?

I love solving complex problems and I love working in central Office of Research with my colleagues and my team and the entire research community.

When are you most productive and why?

I am a morning person and have always been wired that way. Getting to the office by 7 or so, it allows me to be really productive and plan out the day.

Tell us about someone who has mentored or influenced you’re the most in your career path. In what way did he/she/shape your decisions?

My first “UCLA Boss” Rory Constancio, who is the Director of Office of Research Data Management and Office of Business and Financial Services. He brought me to UCLA from UC Davis and took a chance on me and has really mentored me over the years. He’s taught me a lot of about business acumen and how to carry yourself and represent your department with integrity. He’s also been so supportive in my Professional development and in allowing me to take part in various CHR programs.

What would you tell someone who is applying for a job at UCLA?

I would say be persistent and keep knocking on the door until you get in. There is so much opportunity at UCLA and it is a special place to work.

Share with us something about that you that most people don’t know but you would like them to.

First, I was born in Hong Kong back when it was a British Colony. It was truly an amazing experience growing up in Hong Kong. Secondly, I have a Silkie Terrier named “Dobby” and yes I stole the name from Harry Potter. He’s very hyper, sweet and loving. I love Dobby.