University of Nebraska-Lincoln faculty are encouraged to register soon for the May 7 Research and Innovation Convening. The purpose is to help shape a vision for Nebraska’s research identity and provide an on-ramp for co-creating research and scholarship with community, government and industry partners.
The event is 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. in the Nebraska Union, Centennial Room. Lunch will be provided. Registration is required. The full schedule is posted on the event website.
Participants will be sharing ideas and offering input on identity areas to drive future research growth. Other topics include indicators of research strength; infrastructure capabilities, including leveraging recent investments; and alignment with local, state and federal priorities. Discussions will help shape Nebraska’s research identity and programming needs to support continued growth.
“I am thrilled to bring the research community together to refine UNL’s research identity and explore new opportunities to positively impact society through our work,” said Jen Nelson, interim vice chancellor for research and innovation. “We must dream big about our future while also being strategic in how resources are invested. The faculty convening is also a time to think creatively about how UNL can strengthen partnerships with other organizations that serve our communities.”
The morning session will focus on new opportunities and alignment with broader research priorities. Topics include insights into the federal funding landscape; discussions on state, local and national priorities; and recommendations for fully integrating community, government and/or industry partners.
Morning speakers are Deborah Altenburg, vice president for research policy and advocacy, and Kevin Cooke, director of research policy, Association of Public and Land-grant Universities; and Kate Burns, executive director, MetroLab Network.
The focus of the afternoon will be a collaborative, interactive session on updating Nebraska’s research identity. The discussion will be guided by Knowinnovation staff members Donnalyn Roxey, chief operating officer; Annemarie Boss, facilitator; and Andy Burnett, chief executive officer.
Due to limited seating, registration priority will be given to those able to attend the full day of events.
Attendees may stay for an optional post-session from 4:30-5:30 p.m. to network with colleagues. Refreshments will be served.
