Office of Research and Engagement Reorganizing to Improve Services

The Office of Research and Engagement, led by Vice Chancellor Mike Malone, has completed the first phase of a multi-phase strategic reorganization, effective July 1.

The reorganization will improve efficiency and effectiveness of service offerings and aligns with the campus strategic plan by enhancing research administrative and compliance support with a focus on client needs and training.

The second phase of the reorganization will take place in the coming months. The office will be working to update its website accordingly.

During the first phase of the reorganization, the Office of Grants and Contracts Administration (OGCA) was divided into two units: an Office of Pre-Award Services (OPAS) led by Jim Ayres, which will focus on grant proposal development; and an Office of Post-Award Management (OPAM) led by Carol Sprague, which will focus on award management.

The Research Business Managers Network (RBMNet) has been merged with OPAS, reflecting one unit working comprehensively on grant proposal activities.

A new Office of Research Project Management and Training led by Ian Raphael has been created to coordinate strategic programs and project management initiatives.

Finally, a new, centralized research IT department led by Paul Kelley has been created to implement and manage central research administration information technology resources and expertise.

“These changes will improve our services for sponsored research and are possible only because of the great progress made in research administration across the campus in departments and colleges over the last few years,” Malone said.

The Office of Research and Engagement oversees the campus’ research enterprise, working in conjunction with academic, government and private partners to translate new knowledge and scientific discoveries into technical innovations and scholarly works that benefit society and create opportunity for students, faculty and the public.