University of Alaska Fairbanks alumnus Mark Myers will serve as the campus’ new vice chancellor for research.

UAF Chancellor Brian Rogers said Myers is ideal for the position because of his experience as an executive, his strong connections to the state and federal governments, and his commitment to maintain UAF’s place as a premier research institution.

“This is a very exciting time for the UAF research programs and we are confident that Dr. Myers will provide the vision and leadership to help our researchers address the challenges facing our state and nation,” Rogers said.

Myers will begin his new position Jan. 24, 2011. He is currently working as the Alaska Gasline Inducement Act coordinator for the State of Alaska. Prior to that, he was the director of the U.S. Geological Survey. Myers holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a doctorate in geology from UAF. His career as a geologist and policymaker spans more than three decades and includes work as a geologist for ARCO Alaska and the State of Alaska. From 2001 to 2005, he served as director of the state Division of Oil and Gas. Prior to his geology career, Myers served in the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve as a pilot and intelligence officer.

As vice chancellor for research, Myers will oversee administration of UAF’s $123-million-per-year research enterprise and supervise the university’s standalone research institutes.

“Our state is facing an exciting future, full of both heightened challenges and opportunities,” Myers said. “UAF’s research programs and partnerships are strategically focused to provide much of the knowledge and research capacity needed to enhance Alaska’s economy, society and environment.”

Myers said he hopes to work with the UAF research community to enhance interdisciplinary research opportunities and internal communications.

“I will also focus on increasing both the visibility and funding of UAF’s research programs with external stakeholders, potential partners and funders,” he said.

Rogers selected Myers for the $214,000-a-year position from a slate of three finalists. His selection follows a six-month international search by a committee of researchers, administrators, staff members and community members. The search drew 18 qualified applicants. Myers will replace Buck Sharpton, who has served in the position since 2005.
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