After a year-long national search that yielded more than 120 applications, the University has found its new Graduate School dean.
Richard Linton, the chief research officer and director of sponsored programs for the University of North Carolina System, is the new dean of the Graduate School and the vice provost for research and graduate studies. Linton is scheduled to begin Aug. 1.
Provost John Moseley said the importance of having one person cover both areas — graduate studies and research — is crucial because they have integral connections. With his experience in both fields, Linton is more than capable of fulfilling the jobs’ requirements, Moseley said.
“He’s just a great fit,” he said. “He has a lot of energy, and we are thrilled to have him.”
Tom Dyke, interim vice provost for research, said the responsibilities of each position are enormous, but they should be covered by one person.
“It just makes sense to have one person working in both areas,” Dyke said.
Steadman Upham, now the president of Claremont Graduate University in California, was the last person to hold both positions.
As the vice provost for research, Linton is in charge of the University’s $54 million research budget. Additionally, the new Graduate School dean will oversee 60 graduate degree programs for more than 3,400 students.
Linton, a 23-year veteran of the UNCS, said his experience in a state university system and on the Chapel Hill campus will enable him to be successful in his new position.
“I am very familiar with the policy and procedure of research and working with state agencies,” said Linton, a chemistry and applied sciences professor. “All of my experience relates to this opportunity at Oregon.”
At the graduate level, he said he has dealt extensively with program evaluations. Linton, the 1999 recipient of the President’s Award from the Society of Research Administrators, said he is looking forward to working with the associate dean of the Graduate School, a vacant position that was recently created.
Linton’s wife, Marilyn, is also a prospective addition to the University staff. The professor of German applied for an administrative position.
“We’re absolutely delighted,” Richard Linton said. “This is a great opportunity for both of us.”