UBCBulletin Updates for leadership

Dr. Rachel Fernandez appointment extended as Associate Vice-President, Research and Innovation, pro tem

This message was sent to executive, deans and other senior academic leaders, academic heads, directors and managers, and senior professional leaders in Vancouver.

January 14, 2026

In order to provide continuity of support during the upcoming leadership transition in the Vice-President, Research and Innovation (VPRI) portfolio, I am pleased to share that Dr. Rachel Fernandez has agreed to a six-month extension as Associate Vice-President, Research and Innovation. She will serve in this role on a pro-tem basis from March 15 to September 14, 2026, following the end of her current term.

Rachel joined the VPRI leadership team in 2021 and has since played a significant role in providing support and strategic direction for a diverse range of portfolio units and initiatives that support UBC’s research and innovation activities.
 

I am deeply appreciative of Rachel’s continued commitment to the VPRI portfolio during this transition.

Gail C. Murphy
Vice-President, Research and Innovation

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