New organizational structure brings together Ohio State’s research, innovation and knowledge ecosystem

The Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge (ERIK) has been formed under the leadership of Executive Vice President Grace Wang and brings together research and innovation to increase collaboration and synergy while also identifying and engaging with key strategic stakeholders including industry, entrepreneurial and venture capitalist communities, nonprofit institutions, government and national labs to support Ohio State’s innovation goals. The unit will also focus on the development of the Innovation District on Ohio State’s West Campus.

“This is an exciting time for our storied institution,” said Wang. “We have the opportunity to drive the growth of research, creative expression, and innovation, build our Innovation District, and advance Ohio State as a leading research institution and economic engine.”

ERIK is consolidating and leveraging a number of existing offices and programs under one umbrella, including the Office of Research, Corporate Engagement Office, Technology Commercialization Office and the Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship. The new structure will include five pillars:

• The Office of Innovation and Economic Development – currently known as the Corporate Engagement Office – is led by Vice President for Innovation and Economic Development, Scott Osborne and will continue to work to advance innovation and technology commercialization, manage intellectual property, build corporate partnerships, stimulate entrepreneurial and startup activities and support the region’s economic development efforts.
• The Office of Research will lead the strategy and efforts to grow Ohio State’s research and creative expression enterprise, including operations, sponsored programs and research compliance. Dr. Peter Mohler has graciously agreed to serve as Interim Vice President for Research. He currently serves as the Chief Scientific Officer for the Wexner Medical Center as well as the Vice Dean for Research for the College of Medicine and Director of the Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute.
• The Office of Knowledge Enterprise will work to identify existing and emerging research opportunities and provide resources and support to grow research talent. Dr. Dorota Grejner-Brzezinska has accepted the Interim Vice President role to lead the Knowledge Enterprise. She has most recently served as Senior Associate Vice President for Research within the Office of Research while also serving as Associate Dean for Research and Professor of Civil Environmental and Geodetic Engineering both within the College of Engineering.
• The Business Development and Innovation District pillar will handle communications, marketing, business development and strategic events to support the unit as well as economic development activities related to the Innovation District. Dawn Larzelere has been named Associate Vice President for Business Development and Innovation District.
• The Office Administration pillar will support the leadership team in effective execution of the enterprise agenda and operations, including strategic planning, budget, human resources and more. Brad Harris will serve as Chief of Staff with increased responsibilities to oversee administrative operations across the enterprise.

For faculty, staff and students wanting to learn more in-depth information about this unit and its impact on the research community, please visit the Office of Research website.