After considering the increasing magnitude and importance of external research and the increasing complexity of the research funding environment, Chace made the decision to establish a position dedicated to supporting the research needs of the faculty. Much of the need for it is driven by the special challenges associated with sponsored research and associated regulations, but the office will be commited to fostering scholarship throughout the University, sponsored or not. The position will report to the provost, and thus come under the academic umbrella of the central administration.
"Emory has made extraordinary strides in recruiting support for its research activities," said Chace, "and in no area has this growth been more dramatic than in the biomedical environment. That growth must continue to be dramatic, but it must be joined by expansion in other areas. I believe the person to occupy this new position will help us create a fuller and richer picture of sponsored research at Emory."
Chace and Frye have decided to fill the position initially by an internal appointment. They believe that the position should be shaped to fit the particular needs of Emory and not just patterned after similar positions at other universities. Someone who knows Emory, its special history, problems and opportunities, is likely to be in a better position to direct the development of the office than someone from outside, they feel.
Certain administrative functions associated primarily, if not entirely with research, will report to this new office. These include the Office of Sponsored Programs, the Patent and Licensing Office, the University Research Committee and Bimcore. Others, such as the Institutional Review Boards for Protection of Human Subjects and the Animal Care and Use Committee, could continue to report to the dean of the medical school where they are now well ensconced. The best reporting line for units with very large medical components is now under consideration by the president.
However, Frye noted that the principle need for the new position arises not from the need for more "line-management" of these administrative offices, but for greater understanding of the needs of the faculty and of the strengths and limitations of the research environment at Emory. He also pointed to the need for more attention to external research-related agencies, including the federal government and industry, and for encouragement of more cooperative research and shared facilities and resources across the campus.
Chace and Frye have appointed a search committee chaired by Claudia Adkison, associate dean of the medical school, and comprised of seven additional faculty members and administrators. The committee has held its first meeting and is beginning to review applications and nominations for the position.
Faculty members are invited and encouraged to submit nominations and/or applications for the position to the Provost's Office; a current curriculum vitae should be included. Responses can be by letter, e-mail (provbef@emory.edu) or telephone (727-0655). The committee will begin reviewing applicants on Oct. 1.