Western Michigan University's Search Advisory Committee is conducting a national search for the University’s next Vice President of Research and Innovation. A Top-100 national research university, WMU seeks a courageous, visionary, and resourceful academic leader who will enable us to leverage our strengths, advance our stature, and help us shape an enduring identity.

Western Michigan University's impact on the world is fueled by its teaching, research and creative scholarship produced by our esteemed faculty. Across higher education, Western's engagement in discovery continues to be nationally known, respected and productive, as represented by our faculty winning national awards and grant funding. In fiscal year 2021, research awards were up by nearly 21% compared to fiscal year 2020. The funding earned by our researchers supports efforts that improve lives. Our Resiliency Center for Families and Children is just one of many examples. Established last year with a $1.5 million state appropriation, this center designed to meet the needs of those experiencing trauma, toxic stress, chronic disability, neurodevelopmental disorders or substance use disorders recently received an additional $750,000.

We also continue to earn support in advancing education, automotive technology, sustainability, energy and many other areas. With our solid reputation in research and creativity preceding us, we look forward to attracting an exemplary Vice President for Research and Innovation who will take us into our next era advancing the frontiers of knowledge and creative activity.