Mason searching for new vice president of research and economic development

The new vice president would be in charge of all research projects at Mason (photo courtesy of the Office of Research and Economic Development).

George Mason University officials are currently searching for a new vice president to lead the Office of Research and Economic Development.

There were originally around 80 candidates for the job. This week, the list was narrowed down to the five finalists.

Among those interviewing the candidates is James Olds, the director of the Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study and chair of the search committee.

“The Office of Research and Economic Development is responsible for the University’s research enterprise. Our office is extremely important to the success of the University so we need the best possible candidate for Vice President,” Olds said.

The vice president serves is the Chief Research Officer for the university, and is responsible for making sure research at Mason meets U.S. regulations.

“We are looking for a candidate who has extraordinary communication skills and someone who has a passion to help further the scientific community,” Olds said.

According to Olds, the position is highly coveted and is one of the top positions in George Mason.