Associate VP for Research Development and Support

Please consider applying for this new position, described below, by 3/21/25.

Associate VP for Research Development and Support

Summary:

The Associate Vice President for Research Development and Support (AVP-RDS), reporting directly to the Vice President for Research (VPR), serves as a central figure in steering strategic research initiatives such as the Research Priority Area program and VPR-supported grant mechanisms (seed grants, equipment grant, etc.), managing core facilities, and overseeing multidisciplinary centers and institutes reporting to the VPR. This leadership role is instrumental in aligning various research activities with the university’s strategic goals, enhancing operational efficiencies, and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations across the campus. The AVP-RDS will collaborate with the campus research community to identify needs and opportunities, propose new initiatives to the VPR, and assist the VPR in implementation.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Initiatives:
   • Review and evaluate existing initiatives to ensure alignment with university strategic research goals.
   • Identify and develop new research programs and partnerships that align with the university’s long-term goals.
   • Serve as a strategic advisor to the VPR, proposing innovative solutions to enhance the university’s research stature and address emerging challenges.
2. Core Facilities:
   • Provide leadership in the strategic planning and operational management of core facilities to support high-quality research outputs.
   • Enhance the infrastructure of core facilities by overseeing the acquisition and maintenance of cutting-edge equipment and technology.
   • Standardize operations across core facilities to improve efficiency and enhance user experience including implementing best practices for usage, safety and compliance.
3. Centers and Institutes:
   • Oversee the evaluation and strategic enhancement of multidisciplinary research centers and institutes reporting to the VPR to ensure they meet their research, academic and service objectives.
   • Facilitate annual reviews and the development of performance metrics for each unit to assess their impact and return on investment.
   • Coordinate with unit directors to develop and manage budgets, and advocate for necessary resources within the VPR leadership team.

Qualifications: 

• Current tenured faculty member at the University of Kentucky able to devote 30% effort to the role.
• Demonstrated success in securing extramural funding and managing large-scale research projects or initiatives.
• Demonstrable knowledge in research-based technologies and emerging trends in technologies/software and instrumentation.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, operational management and team leadership within a complex research environment.
• Exceptional skills in communication, negotiation and building consensus among diverse stakeholder groups.
• In-depth knowledge of the current challenges and opportunities in higher education and research, with a strong focus on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Apply:

Application deadline is 3/21/25. All applicants should send a cover letter detailing their interest and qualifications and updated CV to vpr@uky.edu. Please use subject line: AVP-RDS.