Pitt Names First Vice Chancellor for Science Policy and Research Strategies

PITTSBURGH—Michael Holland has been named the first-ever vice chancellor for science policy and research strategies at the University of Pittsburgh. He will join Pitt’s Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor for Research in this new position on Oct. 22.

Holland’s responsibilities will include the development and implementation of University research policies and of strategies to support collaborations across the sciences, medicine, engineering, information technology, humanities and creative arts, social sciences and innovation. He will oversee the creation of major research initiatives; maintain and increase University research funding; and shape Pitt’s response to changing research opportunities in support of its strengths and long-term goals.

“Michael’s experience in policy and strategy in New York and Washington will be most valuable as Pitt continues its success in research efforts and innovation,” said Rob Rutenbar, senior vice chancellor for research. “He will broaden the University’s portfolio of interdisciplinary research to include faculty from areas that have not been as well represented, deepen the portfolio by building stronger collaborations across traditional research strengths, and translate our strengths into innovation and entrepreneurship.”

Holland currently serves as executive director of the NYU Center for Urban Science and Progress. He previously held positions at the United States Department of Energy and the White House offices of Science and Technology Policy and of Management and Budget. His expertise covers the “macro” science policy level, engaging critical stakeholder and funding communities at the national level.

“Pitt has been historically strong in attracting federal research and development funds, a great credit to the University and faculty,” said Holland, who did his graduate work in analytical chemistry at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “I want to use my skillset to help faculty reach further in their research and entrepreneurship activities. I believe I can help them see how their cross-disciplinary skills can be combined to obtain larger-scale grants for their innovative projects so they can have a greater impact on the world.”

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