June 30, 2020

Dear University of Oregon Colleagues,

As we conclude this academic year and prepare for the next, we want to congratulate Vice President for Research and Innovation David Conover on his retirement and express our thanks for everything he has done to serve the University of Oregon.

Through his leadership, the UO’s research enterprise has seen a new period of growth in externally funded research and development expenditures, implemented systems for encouraging and incentivizing faculty to apply for grants, and improved the ways the university evaluates research success. In addition, under his watch, the UO created a number of research collaborations with Oregon Health and Science University involving dozens of faculty members.  Vice President Conover also has brought a renewed focus and appreciation for undergraduate research, the hallmark of a great university. You can read more about his accomplishments in Around the O.

David will be missed, but we are excited that he will remain a friend and partner of the university. His last day as vice president for research and innovation is July 3. Following his retirement, David will be an emeritus professor in the Department of Biology and re-engage in his research. A raft or boat trip every now and then might also be in the cards.

The search to fill the VPRI position was postponed in April due to the difficulties presented by COVID-19. Cass Moseley has graciously agreed to serve as interim vice president for research and innovation in the meanwhile. Her first day in the role will be July 6. We are very fortunate to have her experience and expertise to carry us through the transition. The search for the VPRI position will be revisited in the fall and resumed if the situation permits.

Please join us in wishing David the very best in his retirement and future research.

Sincerely,

Michael H. Schill
President and Professor of Law

Patrick Phillips
Provost and Senior Vice President