The University of Akron Strategic Plan
Promises and Aspirations
Research and Innovation
Promise IV
To nurture research and innovation as the anchor public urban research university in Northeast Ohio.
1. Promote and empower faculty research across the University.
- Use storytelling to share and instill a culture of research excellence.
- Support faculty in identifying and securing external grants by implementing new grants management and human
subjects research software platforms. - Support applied scholarly engagement by encouraging the faculty to review and revise Retention, Tenure, and Promotion (RTP) and merit documents.
- Support faculty in funding agency compliance by leveraging open access platforms.
2. Be a leader in the region’s innovation economy.
- Revitalize the University of Akron Research Foundation as the vehicle for innovation at UA.
- Facilitate mutually beneficial partnerships between regional businesses and University stakeholders.
- Increase patents, entrepreneurship, technology transfer and licensing agreements.
- Work with partners in the polymer cluster to deliver top-flight research around sustainable polymers as articulated in
the recent designation of Akron as a Tech Hub.
2023 Progress Highlights
IV. WE PROMISE TO NURTURE RESEARCH AND INNOVATION BY:
A. Revitalizing the Office of Research Administration and the operations of the University of Akron Research Foundation, including hiring permanent leadership.
PROGRESS 2023:
- Hired New Leadership: Dr. Suzanne Bausch named Vice President for Research and Business Engagement and Dean of the Graduate School.
Key Contact Area: Office of Research
B. Incentivize faculty to secure external support for their research and increase Facilities and Administration revenue to the General Fund
PROGRESS 2023:
- Expanded Grant Opportunities: FY22 grant awards increased 38% over FY21.
- Increased personnel: The Office of Research Administration expanded to support faculty in pre-award (two new hires) and post-award (one new hire) stages.
Key Contact Area: Research at the University of Akron
C. Identify and adjust policies and practices that hinder faculty in their scholarly and innovation pursuits.
PROGRESS 2023:
- Innovation Opportunities: Reintroduced “three-party” agreements with UA, UARF and outside entities to increase efficiency of innovation pursuits.
- Foster Entrepreneurship: Expanded entrepreneurship through the I-Corps program to build programs for early entrepreneurs and attract students.
Key Contact Area: University of Akron Research Foundation
Promises and Aspirations
Strategic Plan
Well-Being & Stewardship
Academic Opportunity
Inclusive Excellence & Belonging
Research & Innovation
