February 20, 2026

Internal search opens for vice chancellor for research and innovation

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has announced its 11 new Grand Challenges projects, including assistant professor Qiuming Yao's project, “TrustGenViz: An Initiative to Advance Trust and Visualization for Generative Language Models of Biological Sequenc

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has launched an internal search for its next vice chancellor for research and innovation.

The search was announced Feb. 20 by Interim Chancellor Katherine S. Ankerson. The application deadline is March 8.

Jennifer Mize Nelson has served as interim vice chancellor for research and innovation since November 2024.

The vice chancellor serves as the university’s chief research and economic development officer, reporting to the Office of the Chancellor and serving on the executive leadership team. The role provides intellectual, strategic, and visionary leadership for the university’s research and economic development enterprise. The position oversees the Office of Research and Innovation, including research development, sponsored programs, compliance, industry relations and technology commercialization, as well as Nebraska Innovation Campus, NUtech Ventures, University of Nebraska State Museum and University of Nebraska Press. The vice chancellor also provides leadership for interdisciplinary research centers across multiple fields.

Key priorities include advancing sponsored research growth, strengthening national competitiveness, aligning research and economic development with the university’s strategic plan and expanding public- and private-sector partnerships.

Candidates must hold a terminal degree with credentials consistent with appointment as a professor and have significant leadership experience in research-driven programs and partnerships.

Complete details about the position and application process are available online.