President Scholz sent the following message to faculty and staff on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025.
Dear colleagues,
I am pleased to announce that beginning November 10, Geraldine “Geri” Richmond, Presidential Chair in Science and Professor of Chemistry at UO, will serve as Interim Vice President for Research & Innovation.
Geri Richmond is a highly distinguished scholar, a nationally recognized leader in science, and a longtime member of the Oregon research community. She joined the University of Oregon faculty in 1985 and has since built an internationally respected body of work in physical chemistry and surface science. She holds the Presidential Chair in Science, is a member of the National Academy of Sciences has served in senior leadership roles in national scientific organizations, and was awarded the National Medal of Science, which is the highest honor given by the U.S. government for scientific achievement.
Most recently, Geri completed four years of federal service as the U.S. Department of Energy’s Undersecretary for Science and Innovation, where she oversaw 13 national laboratories and directed a $15 billion portfolio of research in areas such as chemistry, physics, materials science, renewable energy technologies, and national security. In that role, she established the DOE’s Critical Emerging Technologies Office to advance breakthroughs in AI, quantum science, and biosecurity. She also launched the Energy Earthshots Initiative to accelerate clean energy solutions, with a strong emphasis on equity and impact in underserved communities.
As one of the founders of COACh (Committee on the Advancement of Women Chemists), she has championed career advancement programs for women scientists worldwide. She has also played critical roles on national bodies (such as the National Science Board), served as a U.S. science envoy for the State Department, and held leadership positions in major scientific societies.
Geri returned to UO last spring after completing her federal service, quickly reengaging with students and faculty. She has advanced the university’s research and resilience priorities through her service on the UO Research Resilience Committee, appointed jointly by the Office of the President and the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation. In her interim leadership role, Geri will work closely with our research offices, deans, faculty, and partners to sustain momentum in research initiatives, support innovation, and help guide our strategic direction in research and discovery.
Please join me in welcoming Geri to this role. I am confident that her deep scientific insight, institutional experience, and commitment to excellence will serve our university well.
Karl Scholz
President