Job Description

How to Apply

Materials should be sent electronically via e-mail to the university's consultant, Dr. Jonathan Fortescue of Park Square Executive Search, at [email protected]. Documents that must be mailed may be sent to Jonathan Fortescue, Ph.D., Managing Partner, or Clarice Helfand, Senior Associate, Park Square Executive Search, LLC, 225 Franklin Street, 17th Floor, Boston, MA 02110. Phone: 617-401-8362. 

Job Summary

The University of Michigan, one of the nation's premier research universities with an annual research volume exceeding $2B and with campuses in Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint, is seeking a Vice President for Research and Innovation (VPRI), who serves as an executive officer and the chief research official of the University. In catalyzing, supporting, and safeguarding the University's research and creative practice agenda, the Vice President works closely with the President, Provost and Executive Director of Academic Affairs, Executive Vice President (EVP) for Medical Affairs, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, other members of the University leadership team, directors of institutes, and deans of schools and colleges. 

What You'll Do

The Vice President for Research and Innovation reports to the President and leads and oversees the University of Michigan Office of Research. The Vice President for Research and Innovation also works closely with the Provost to align the office's efforts with the academic mission of the University, and is supported by several associate and assistant vice presidents for research. Eight centers and institutes that catalyze, support, and safeguard the university's research enterprise currently report to the Office of the Vice President of Research and Innovation (OVPRI). 

Our Impact

Opportunities 

The research enterprise at U-M generates knowledge that advances society. As part of the University's Vision 2034 plan, we will continue to invest in new learning, design, technologies, infrastructure, and approaches that empower large-scale transdisciplinary research. We champion a research outlook that is anchored in support of our workforce and community, and relentlessly aimed at addressing global issues in close collaboration with our valued partners. 

We place enormous value on ensuring robust support structures for our faculty, staff, and students. This includes promoting safety and compliance while fostering a deep understanding of the intricacies of research methods and challenges. We envision a landscape where teams from diverse backgrounds converge, fostering a collaborative environment of growth and exploration. We strive to be a dynamic force for positive change - an innovative community that thrives on engagement, collaboration, and partnerships that make a difference in our state, our region, and our world. 

Rooted in our public commitment, U-M fuels economic vitality across the state of Michigan. Through strategic partnerships that strengthen the bridge between academia, government, and industries, we aim to generate innovation and growth that reverberates across the state. 

By implementing "smart growth" strategies and a standardized framework that emphasizes societal benefits and financial returns, we aim to ensure that U-M efficiently uses our land for sustainable development. This model will address societal needs, such as affordable housing, community partnerships, and other impactful programs within our community. 

Our vision is not confined to regional boundaries. U-M aims to broaden and grow the global footprint of the university. We plan to increase the number and depth of partnerships with national laboratories, forge international research alliances, expand exchange programs, and build additional collaborations with diverse commercial, educational, and governmental entities. U-M aspires to elevate its reputation as an international destination renowned for its exceptional facilities and shared-resources that are designed to encourage vibrant research collaborations. As we grow our vibrant research setting, we are positioned more than ever to make transformative discoveries that will enrich the quality of life for Michigan residents and people around the world. 

IN THE NEXT DECADE, WE WILL: 

Responsibilities*

The vice president plays a leadership role in national and international activities regarding research policy and guides the University in defining and meeting the emerging research opportunities of the future. Important goals of the research and creative practice agenda include: 

Required Qualifications*

Successful candidates for this role might come from a range of prior professional experiences, including service as a leader in a Research Office, as a leader of a large research institute, as an officer in a Federal funding agency, and/or other relevant institutional leadership experience. Strong candidates will have many of the following qualities: 

In addition to the qualifications listed above, ideal candidates will also possess personal attributes and interpersonal skills necessary for success in this role, such as decisiveness, broad intellectual curiosity, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively. 

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

Since its founding in 1817, the University of Michigan has served as a national model of a complex, diverse, and comprehensive public institution of higher learning that supports excellence in research; provides outstanding undergraduate, graduate, and professional education; and demonstrates a commitment to service through partnerships and collaborations that extend to local, regional, state, national, and global communities. 

The University is governed by the Regents of the University, consisting of eight members elected at large in the biennial state election, and the President of the University, who serves as an ex officio member. Dr. Santa Ono became the 15th president of the University in October 2022. The Regents serve without compensation for overlapping terms of eight years. According to the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the Regents have general supervision of the institution and the control and direction of all expenditures from the institution's funds. The Regents meet once a month in a public session. Additional information is available at http://www.regents.umich.edu/. 

Application Deadline

Inquiries, nominations, and applications are invited. Although the search will remain open until the position is filled, review of candidate materials will begin immediately. Candidates should provide a curriculum vitae, a letter of application that addresses the responsibilities and requirements described herein, and the names and contact information of five references. References will not be contacted without prior knowledge and approval of candidates. 

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

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