Dr. Ramses Ilarraza

Associate Vice President, Research (Acting)

On April 1, I assumed the role of acting Associate Vice-President, Research. I had recently joined AU as the inaugural director of research and innovation, and I am pleased to offer my experience and knowledge in this expanded capacity.

I am a researcher who has devoted over 25 years to conducting biomedical lab research, in particular on the role of the immune response in asthma and other respiratory diseases, among other fields. Over six years ago, I made the decision to transition to an academic administrator role, serving as both the inaugural associate vice-president, Research, as well as the dean of graduate studies (interim), at Concordia University of Edmonton. During that tenure, I contributed to the significant growth of the research culture and Tri-Agency funding at that institution, which was particularly complex as we navigated through challenging times that included a pandemic and a labour disruption.

Now, as the lead in the Research Office, I will continue to foster an active, ambitious, and inclusive research culture at AU, and expand the opportunities to make a difference through academic research by and for our community. To help me achieve this, I have inherited an amazing Research Office team, one that is always eager to assist and make sure that our research enterprise is successful.

The work in the research portfolio at AU continues, and we hope to soon resume work on major initiatives related to it, including the finalization of the Strategic Research Plan.

I would like to thank you in advance for your role and contributions to our institution’s research ecosystem. I am looking forward to meeting you, electronically or in person, now and in the near future.