The University's first vice president for research, Dr. Leo Chalupa, has hit the ground running this year with his promise to connect various departments in unified research efforts. We are encouraged by the work done so far, and we hope that this is just the beginning of a successful effort to establish research as a main priority for GW.
Dr. Chalupa hopes to start new research in the fields of computational biology, autism, science policy, energy, sustainability and neglected diseases. Starting at GW last April, he has lost little time in identifying the areas of study that will raise GW's profile and hold promise as fields of growing interest in the coming years.
Much of Dr. Chalupa's initial success has stemmed from his work in cross-disciplinary collaboration. This technique brings staff members from multiple fields together to focus on singular issues. An example of this collaboration is putting different specialists in neuroscience, education and public policy onto a committee to discuss autism - something he is already doing.
Of course, to further research goals, Dr. Chalupa needs funding. University President Steven Knapp, then, must be commended for making the field a priority in the University's budget. The $5.4 million he has allocated marks a positive start for GW's campaign.
Moving forward, undergraduate involvement must be a strong component of GW's research goals. One of the characteristics of renowned research universities is the inclusion of undergraduate students in the research process. Providing undergrad students with the resources to conduct experiments, gain experience in a laboratory setting, and contribute to publications in academic journals will prove a necessary aspect of the University's research campaign.
Talking about research at GW inevitably involves the controversial Science and Engineering Complex. Dr. Chalupa has expressed support for the massive undertaking, and because the SEC is an important aspect of advancing research at GW, it is important he continues to be a part of the discussion. His input is invaluable to the project.
In the coming months, Dr. Chalupa will have to take two differing academic philosophies into consideration. Will we emphasize fields in which GW already excels, or make the investment into areas that GW does not have a strong presence? Both philosophies bring unique challenges to the table, and it is important to recognize where GW's strengths and weaknesses lie when moving forward.
The progress that Dr. Chalupa has made in his short time at GW is promising. We hope that all efforts are made to continue to carry out his vision for raising the standards and profile of research at GW.
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