Dr. Cynthia Carnes named University of Minnesota Vice President for Research and Innovation

Nationally recognized leader to advance University’s $1.4 billion research enterprise and drive next phase of innovation

Dr. Cynthia Carnes, a nationally recognized research leader and university administrator, has been named the University of Minnesota’s vice president for research and innovation following an extensive national search. Pending approval by the University Board of Regents, Carnes’ appointment will begin on July 31.

“Dr. Carnes brings exceptional experience advancing research operations, supporting faculty researchers and driving innovation across a large, complex university system,” said President Rebecca Cunningham. “She steps into this role at a pivotal time, as the research landscape grows more competitive and the University of Minnesota continues to lead nationally. With a research enterprise that generates $3.9 billion in economic impact annually and supports more than 25,000 jobs in Minnesota, we need bold, forward-looking leadership to build on this momentum. Dr. Carnes is uniquely positioned to do just that.”

As vice president for research and innovation, Carnes will lead efforts to sustain and strengthen the University’s research enterprise, enhance operations and interdisciplinary collaboration, and expand partnerships across industry, government and communities statewide. In this critical leadership role, Cynthia will serve as the University’s chief research officer across all campuses and locations and as a key member of the University Cabinet. Her appointment comes as the University advances its Elevate Extraordinary 2030 strategic roadmap in an increasingly competitive research environment.

“The University of Minnesota’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and public impact resonates strongly with me,” said Carnes. “This role is a meaningful opportunity to work together with faculty, staff and partners to build on the University’s strengths — advancing discovery, fostering collaboration and driving innovations that make a meaningful difference for Minnesota and beyond.”

Over a 30-year career at The Ohio State University, Carnes has led initiatives to modernize research systems, improve support for faculty and staff, and expand training for researchers and investigators. Her work has included piloting the use of AI to streamline compliance processes and create a more efficient and responsive research environment.

Carnes currently serves as senior associate vice president for research operations at The Ohio State’s Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge (ERIK), a role she has held since 2022. She is also the ENGIE-Axium Endowed Chair and professor of pharmaceutics and pharmacology in The Ohio State’s College of Pharmacy.

A distinguished scholar, Carnes’ work spans pharmacology, medicine and veterinary science, reflecting a long-standing commitment to cross-disciplinary research. She has authored more than 90 peer-reviewed publications and has been named a Fellow of the American Heart Association, the Heart Rhythm Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Looking ahead, the University will also immediately begin a national search for a senior AVP for Research Strategy and Innovation. The senior AVP will be an important member of the Research & Innovation Office leadership team and responsible for partnering across the institution to bolster research activity and advance the University’s profile and partnerships across Minnesota, the nation and around the world.