Posted September 5, 2023 by Office of Research and Economic Development
The beginning of the fall semester brings a sense of renewed energy and purpose. With a few weeks of classes complete, I hope you’re settling into the rhythm of the semester.
For me, fall began on an exciting note with the Aug. 28 announcement of the 2023 projects funded through the Grand Challenges Catalyst Competition. Along with Chancellor Rodney Bennett, I had the opportunity to review the proposed projects, and I was incredibly impressed by the Nebraska faculty’s innovative spirit and willingness to cross disciplines to solve pressing societal issues using novel approaches. It is through this high-impact work that Nebraska Research will make meaningful contributions to communities, our state, country and world – one of the aims outlined in the N2025 Strategic Plan.
Before looking forward to our goals for the coming year, I want to highlight some important leadership changes. The Office of Research and Economic Development filled several open positions.
- Aron Barbey became director of the Center for Brain, Biology and Behavior on Aug. 14. He joins Nebraska from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
- George Gogos, Wilmer J. and Sally Hergenrader Chair of Mechanical Engineering, became director of the Nebraska Center for Energy Sciences Research on Aug. 14.
- Marilyn Wolf, Elmer E. Koch Professor of Engineering, was named director for engineering and technology initiatives, effective Aug. 14.
- Jennifer Nelson, assistant vice chancellor for research, became research integrity officer on Aug. 1.
- Sam Mombou became director of the Office of Sponsored Programs on Aug. 1. He joined UNL from Northwestern University.
Faculty development is one of ORED’s highest priorities. I encourage you to participate in the many opportunities ORED offers, including the next cohort of the Research Development Fellows Program; NUtech Ventures’ Introduction to Customer Discovery Program; and the Research Partnerships workshops hosted by University Libraries in partnership with ORED. Visit the News for Researchers webpage for updates on workshops, programs, initiatives and more. Soon, I will share more about ORED’s new project management service for teams working on large-scale proposals.
I welcome your feedback on how we can best support you in your quest to become world-changing leaders, researchers and inventors.
Bob Wilhelm
Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development
