The Office of Research (OoR) has taken significant steps to enhance its leadership team by appointing two new associate vice presidents and establishing a new assistant vice president position within the Office of Research Integrity and Safety (ORIS).
Jessica Muilenburg, who has served as a professor and assistant dean in the College of Public Health, will assume the role of associate vice president for faculty affairs and campus engagement. Her responsibilities will focus on research personnel development and recognition initiatives. Nate Nibbelink, previously a professor and associate dean for research in the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, will be the new associate vice president for strategic research growth, overseeing research funding and the support of collaborative research efforts. Additionally, Lisa Kelly, who was the director of learning management system administration in University Human Resources, has been appointed as assistant vice president for research integrity and safety.
Kelly began her role on December 1, while Muilenburg and Nibbelink officially started on January 1. Interim vice president for research Chris King highlighted that the recent changes in senior leadership provided a chance to restructure the office for better efficiency and to incorporate new talent to manage the increasing compliance and oversight requirements related to research.
Muilenburg expressed enthusiasm for her new responsibilities, especially in fostering connections between researchers and enhancing campus engagement. Her portfolio will incorporate the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, research honors, and initiatives aimed at promoting research innovation on campus.
Similarly, Nibbelink emphasized his intention to prioritize communication with faculty and research leaders to understand their unique needs, contributing to the growth of research at UGA. His focus will include managing integrative initiatives and supporting faculty in expanding their research programs through collaboration.
Kelly’s role comes as ORIS faces growing compliance responsibilities. She will oversee various programs ensuring research safety and integrity, highlighting her commitment to advancing UGA’s research mission while maintaining necessary compliance measures.
King expressed optimism about the new appointments and is eager to work alongside this talented team to support and develop UGA’s vibrant research community further.
This restructuring comes at a pivotal time, reflecting a commitment to maintaining high standards of research integrity while also fostering an innovative and collaborative research environment. By aligning leadership resources effectively, UGA is well-positioned to enhance its research output and impact.