About Us

Our office provides critical support for research and academic ventures across the University. On this page, you’ll learn about our mission, meet the vice president for research, and get a better understanding of the work we do.

Mission and vision

The Office of the Vice President for Research serves to enhance research initiatives at the University. In collaboration with our offices, we strive to support Rochester faculty and staff through all their research endeavors.

Our office also provides strategic oversight in shaping the future of research at the University, articulating a vision for the research enterprise, and positioning the University at the forefront of research innovation.

As a leading research institution, we have a deep understanding of the value of research—and particularly, the importance of how our research and our classrooms intersect. We aim to enrich the University’s academic enterprise, which is essential in providing a higher education experience that is uniquely Rochester.

A newly delineated role

The Office of the Vice President for Research is relatively new to the University—and its development helps ensure research is equitably valued and prioritized.

In a message to the University community sent in Spring 2021, it was announced that the research enterprise would no longer fall under the jurisdiction of the Office of the Provost. The President remarked that this shift “will allow us to focus intensively in both the academic affairs and research aspects of the University of Rochester’s future.”

Read the news announcement

Meet the Interim Vice President for Research

Stephen Dewhurst, PhD, is currently serving as the Interim Vice President for Research and Chief Research Officer. Dewhurst has extensive research and academic experience in the health sciences space. He joined the University as a professor in 1990, and has served as Vice Dean for Research at URMC since 2013.

Dewhurst’s full biography

Leadership search

The University is currently seeking a distinguished scholar and administrative leader to serve as Vice President for Research. Reporting to the President, this role will guide the strategic vision for Rochester’s research enterprise.

Learn more about the search

Our offices and responsibilities

Research resources for the community

Overview of research at Rochester

We’re excited to work together to forward the research enterprise at Rochester. Reach out to our office with any questions or to start a conversation.

Contact our office