Pitt names new vice chancellor for science policy and research strategies

Pitt’s newest vice chancellor position will help develop research policies and strategies to support collaboration between all fields at the University.

Michael HollandMichael Holland, executive director of the NYU Center for Urban Science and Progress, was named Pitt’s first-ever vice chancellor for science policy and research strategies earlier this week.

He will be part of the Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor for Research when he starts on Oct. 22.

In his new job, Holland will oversee the creation of major research initiatives; maintain and increase University research funding; and shape Pitt’s response to changing research opportunities in support of its strengths and long-term goals, according to a University news release. 

Holland, who did his graduate work in analytical chemistry at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, previously held positions at the U.S. Department of Energy and the White House offices of Science and Technology Policy and of Management and Budget.

 “Michael’s experience in policy and strategy in New York and Washington will be most valuable as Pitt continues its success in research efforts and innovation,” Rob Rutenbar, senior vice chancellor for research, said in the news release. “He will broaden the University’s portfolio of interdisciplinary research to include faculty from areas that have not been as well represented, deepen the portfolio by building stronger collaborations across traditional research strengths, and translate our strengths into innovation and entrepreneurship.”

“Pitt has been historically strong in attracting federal research and development funds, a great credit to the University and faculty,” Holland said in the news release. “I want to use my skillset to help faculty reach further in their research and entrepreneurship activities. I believe I can help them see how their cross-disciplinary skills can be combined to obtain larger-scale grants for their innovative projects so they can have a greater impact on the world.”