There is a new but familiar face at the helm of Brock University’s research enterprise.

As of Jan. 1, Michelle McGinn has assumed the role of Acting Vice-President, Research.

Well versed in research at Brock, McGinn has spent more than five years as Associate Vice-President, Research, in addition to previous positions she’s held throughout her 24 years at the University.

“Brock research has and will continue to benefit from the strong and effective leadership Dr. McGinn has provided,” says University President and Vice-Chancellor Lesley Rigg. “Her commitment to growing research at the University and supporting researchers in their work has played a key role in the positive momentum that has been building here.”

McGinn has been appointed Vice-President, Research while Tim Kenyon serves as Interim Provost and Vice-President, Academic. Kenyon assumed the interim position Jan. 1. The search for Brock’s next Provost is now underway.

During her time as Associate Vice-President, Research, McGinn oversaw renewal of the Canada Research Chairs program, while also heading up efforts to create and implement the program’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Action Plan. She also co-created Brock’s Strategic Research Plan and led the planning process around researcher access during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, she administered Brock’s Responsible Conduct of Research portfolio.

Prior to taking on the Associate Vice-President position, McGinn was Associate Dean, Graduate Student Services, Research and International in the Faculty of Education, and also previously served as chair of Brock’s Research Ethics Board. With a PhD in education from Simon Fraser University and a certificate in research administration from Mohawk College, her expertise lies in research collaboration and development.

“There’s so much amazing research that happens across this institution in every discipline, with many researchers at the forefront of their field, and I look forward to continuing to support these efforts in this new role,” McGinn says. “I’m thankful to be transitioning into this new position with an established and dedicated team in place whose contributions have helped Brock research to thrive.”