Vice President for Research and Innovation
Location: On-Site, Ann Arbor, MI

Job Description:

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Employment Type: Full-Time | Onsite


Position Overview

Are you a visionary leader ready to redefine the boundaries of research and innovation? The University of Michigan (U-M) seeks an inspiring Vice President for Research and Innovation (VPRI) to spearhead bold strategies that amplify groundbreaking discoveries, foster transformative collaborations, and elevate our global research enterprise.

Reporting directly to the President, the VPRI will guide and oversee U-M’s vast research landscape, home to eight cutting-edge research centers and institutes, shaping advancements that fuel economic growth, technological breakthroughs, and social impact.


The Role: Your Opportunity to Lead

  • Champion Innovation: Lead initiatives that push the frontiers of research across fields, from artificial intelligence and clean energy to health sciences and creative arts.
  • Drive Impact: Amplify research efforts aligned with U-M’s Vision 2034 plan to tackle global challenges through transdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Foster Partnerships: Forge strategic alliances with government agencies, industries, and global research leaders to unlock new opportunities and propel discovery.
  • Advance Interdisciplinary Research: Build teams across disciplines to pursue large-scale grants and foster cutting-edge explorations.
  • Promote Inclusivity: Cultivate a vibrant research culture where diverse perspectives converge to fuel creativity and breakthrough solutions.
  • Champion Knowledge Transfer: Translate research into actionable solutions that influence policy, societal well-being, and technological innovation.

What We’re Looking For

Required Skills and Experience:

  • Proven Research Leadership: Experience leading a research office, institute, or federal agency, with a history of securing major research funding.
  • Visionary Leadership: The ability to communicate a compelling vision for U-M’s scholarly and creative enterprise.
  • Academic Excellence: Tenured full professor with an international scholarly reputation.
  • Strategic Collaboration: Proven ability to build interdisciplinary teams and foster collaborative partnerships across sectors.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: A demonstrated commitment to fostering diverse research communities.
  • Operational Excellence: Experience managing complex budgets and research compliance requirements.
  • Innovative Mindset: Awareness of the transformative role technology plays in research and education.

Preferred Attributes:

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Global research perspective and the ability to build international alliances.
  • Passion for translating research into public impact through technology transfer and policy engagement.

Why Join the University of Michigan?

  • World-Class Research Ecosystem: Collaborate with leading thinkers and innovators in a research-intensive environment.
  • Strategic Vision: Shape U-M’s role as a global research leader through investment in supercomputing, AI, sustainability, and creative innovation.
  • Collaborative Culture: Engage with stakeholders across academia, government, and industry to deliver real-world impact.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, retirement matching, and wellness programs.

How to Apply

Ready to help U-M shape the next generation of discoveries? Submit your application, including your CV, letter of application, and contact information for five references.

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environmen


Key Skills:

  • Vice President for Research and Innovation