Mr. Sean Lawrie is the Associate Director for Research Development with CTR. Mr. Lawrie primarily works with CTR researchers to develop partnerships, support research endeavors, and expand the CTR research portfolio. Additionally, Mr. Lawrie conducts legal and policy research that integrates with CTR’s four technical thrusts, electrified connected automated transport, transportation operations, cybersecurity and resilience, and safety. Mr. Lawrie has also held positions at UTK in the Center for Global Engagement and the Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Development.

Before coming to UTK in 2023, he spent 11 years at Michigan State University in positions that mostly centered on global partnerships, research development, strategic planning, and faculty engagement. Prior to his transition to higher education, Mr. Lawrie was a practicing attorney for 11 years.

Mr. Lawrie has a J.D. from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He also received his M.I.S. in International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution from American University and earned his B.A. in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Western Michigan University.