New head of AU Research to be appointed
Demands on research administration have evolved, and this has consequences for the position of deputy director for AU Research. By mutual agreement, current Deputy Director John Westensee will now transition to a position as adviser with special focus on international research and innovation collaboration.
The administration involved in research has exploded in breadth and complexity in recent years. The requirements connected with everything from handling personal data, open science and frameworks for international research collaboration continue to increase, while competition for research grants is constantly intensifying. Rector Brian Bech Nielsen stresses that ensuring that AU’s researchers receive the best possible service across the board is a huge leadership task. A task that will fall to a new deputy director for AU Research.
“The faculties have different desires and needs with regard to administrative support for research activities, and ensuring productive dialogue with the university’s research groups and programmes will be a decisive factor in order for a new deputy director to succeed,” said Nielsen on behalf of the senior management team.
Trio will head appointment committee
By agreement with the rector, Westensee will continue on at AU in the capacity of adviser at AU Research, with focus on international research and innovation collaboration.
“In addition to spearheading the considerable development of the unit’s capacities within research administration, John has also led the unit through several organisational changes over the years, and I’d like to thank him for his contribution,” the rector said. “I’m pleased that we will continue to benefit from his great knowledge and experience.”
On 1 February, the leadership of AU Research will be transferred to University Director Kristian Thorn in collaboration with the heads of the Research Support Office and the Technology Transfer Office, Christina Dahl and Anette Miltoft respectively. The search for a new deputy director for AU Research will begin very soon.