The Department of Medicine is pleased to celebrate Tim Fram, Research Manager in the Division of Infectious Diseases, as the distinguished recipient of the DOM STAR Award for Staff Excellence in the Fall 2023 quarter.

Fram joined the Division of Infectious Diseases in 2017 and currently serves as a lab manager for Nathan Erdmann, M.D., Ph.D; Paul Goepfert, M.D.; and Anju Bansal, Ph.D.

Fram’s colleagues were eager to express their gratitude for his impact in the division, highlighting his passion for collaboration, his dedication to work, and his immense respect for others. Kevin Maroney, MS, described Fram as “the glue that holds the labs together.”

Many detailed Fram’s ability to create solutions that benefit everyone. This ability was displayed when Fram created a centralized database to support the team’s need to effectively identify samples. His innovation allowed researchers to update information in real time, which helped minimize errors throughout the lab.

“He strongly believes in collaboration in shared governance so that a large research team can be successful,” Bansal explained.

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fram played a crucial role in navigating research and clinical trial challenges. He was instrumental in processing thousands of biospecimens and associated documentation. Uncertain of the nature of the virus, he worked under level 3 biosafety conditions at a time when most labs on campus were shut down. Fram’s courage helped UAB participate in the first Remdesivir trial.

“Tim never hesitated to contribute however needed,” Erdmann remembered.

Fram is revered in the division for the respect he shows to others. Nominators shared stories of Fram's patience during stressful situations, willingness to prioritize others, and an openness to improving his own perspective and processes through feedback.

“Tim is always very patient and willing to teach others a new lab technique or procedure. He is respectful of others and no task is below him. He keeps impeccable records and is often the go to person when something is needed. He does this always with a smile and with a great attitude,” said Steffanie Sabbaj, Ph.D.

Thank you, Tim, for exemplifying leadership through kindness, collaboration, and innovation. Your contributions to the Division of Infectious Diseases and UAB are invaluable. Congratulations for being named DOM’s Fall 2023 STAR Award winner for Staff Excellence.