Thomas Paluchniak, Manager, Contracts

Thomas Paluchniak has been selected as the new Contracts Manager. Thomas most recently served as Senior Project Representative at the University of Michigan’s Office of Research and Sponsored Projects (ORSP), where he has spent the past six years safeguarding and advancing U-M's research enterprise. Thomas has provided critical support to U-M faculty and external partners engaged in sponsored research. His expertise includes analyzing complex research-related guidance, negotiating agreements, and collaborating with a diverse range of stakeholders to ensure compliance with university policies and legal requirements, from intellectual property issues to export control and data use provisions.

Before joining ORSP, Thomas spent over a decade working in a law firm where he guided clients through challenging legal situations with sharp legal analysis, a people-centric approach, and the ability to perform in high-volume, deadline-driven environments.

He is a member of the Research Administration Advisory Council (RAAC) Communications Subcommittee and the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA).

Thomas's commitment to excellence earned him the U-M Office of the Vice President for Research Staff Recognition Award.

Thomas's strong interpersonal skills, positivity, and ability to quickly understand and solve sophisticated research management challenges will be an asset to this position. Thomas earned his Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School, where he was involved in Law Review and Moot Court. He also holds a BA in Philosophy, magna cum laude, from Eastern Michigan University and a Design and Product Marketing Degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.

We are confident that Thomas will excel in his new role.