Vice President for Research

West Virginia University

Morgantown, West Virginia

THE SEARCH

West Virginia University (WVU), the flagship public, R1 land-grant university of West Virginia, seeks a collaborative, strategic, and accomplished leader to serve as its next Vice President for Research (VPR). Joining WVU at a pivotal moment, the VPR will help shape the University’s next chapter and drive its ambitious vision for the future, including an invitation to join the American Association of Universities (AAU). Under the leadership of President Dr. Michael Benson and newly appointed Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Beverly Wendland, the VPR will partner closely with university leadership, faculty, staff, and key stakeholders to advance WVU’s Strategic Compass.

As the state’s only R1 institution, West Virginia University is a place where research and creative activity generate meaningful impact for West Virginia, the nation, and the world. Faculty, researchers, and students are advancing work at the frontiers of critical national priorities, from improving human health, with a focus on rural health, to extending the viability of long-duration space travel, to developing next-generation energy solutions, and to transforming approaches to cancer diagnosis and treatment. This momentum is reflected in WVU’s continued growth in research activity, with $259 million in annual expenditures and a sustained record of expansion, as well as in its broader economic impact, which contributes more than $400 million annually to the state and supports thousands of jobs. Grounded in its land-grant mission, WVU’s research enterprise is defined by a shared commitment to applying discovery to real-world challenges, translating bold ideas into innovation, strengthening communities across West Virginia, and extending the University’s reach worldwide.

Reporting to the President, the Vice President for Research serves as West Virginia University’s chief research officer, providing strategic leadership for the University’s large and complex research and creative enterprise encompassing over 100 staff across 18 units. WVU seeks a forward-looking and collaborative leader with a demonstrated record of success and vision to further elevate the research enterprise into a robust, integrated ecosystem aligned with the expectations of a leading R1 institution and reflective of AAU-level aspirations.

The successful candidate will bring a strong record of externally funded research and will be qualified for appointment at the rank of full professor with tenure. The VPR will be a visible leader and advocate, an effective communicator, capable of engaging diverse constituencies, and will work collaboratively across schools and units to advance research priorities, support faculty success, and enhance the overall impact of the University’s research enterprise at the state, national, and global levels.

APPLICATIONS, INQUIRIES, AND NOMINATIONS

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent via the Isaacson, Miller website for the West Virginia University VPR.

Dan Rodas, Partner

Robin Dougherty, Managing Associate

Nicole Sancilio, Managing Search Coordinator

Isaacson, Miller

West Virginia University (WVU) is an Equal Opportunity Institution.