Starting October 6, Robert Hampshire will lead the newly established Research Development Office, which will enhance the University’s research impact by supporting grant proposals for large-scale interdisciplinary research initiatives, building strategic partnerships, and leading strategic growth initiatives.
“The appointment of Professor Hampshire marks a pivotal step in advancing our research mission,” said Shashank Priya, Vice President for Research and Innovation. “He brings an exceptional track record as a distinguished faculty member, accomplished government leader, and dynamic collaborator across sectors. His vision and leadership will be essential in building the kind of interdisciplinary, cross-sector teams needed to tackle the most pressing and complex challenges facing society today.”
“As the leader of the Research Development Office, I'm excited to partner with the broad University of Minnesota community to foster impactful collaborations across academia, industry, nonprofits, NGOs, and government agencies,” said Hampshire. “My philosophy for partnership is based on three key lessons I learned while leading research at the U.S. Department of Transportation: define a bold, measurable mission with tangible outcomes; build coalitions that cross sector and discipline lines; and move at ‘mission speed’ from lab to deployment.”