Rene Van Acker, Interim Vice-President (Research)

Rene Van Acker

Vice-President (Research & Innovation)
Office of the Vice-President (Research & Innovation)
Phone number: 
519-824-4120 Ext. 53081
Office: 
University Centre, Room 416

Leadership for the development and implementation of the University of Guelph’s research endeavours, strategic planning and policy framework. Oversees operational units within the Office of the Vice-President (Research & Innovation) including the following: Research Services; Agri-Food Partnership; Research Innovation Office; Research Communications; and Food from Thought.

Abeir El Arqusosi

Executive Assistant to the Vice-President (Research & Innovation)
Office of the Vice-President (Research & Innovation)
Phone number: 
519-824-4120 Ext. 53081
Office: 
University Centre, Room 416

Provides executive administrative support to the Vice-President (Research & Innovation), manages schedule, and acts as the main office contact with internal and external stakeholders. Oversees the overall operation of the Office of the Vice-President (Research & Innovation), including office budget, human resource administration, organization of office events, and serving as secretary to internal advisory boards chaired by the Vice-President (Research & Innovation), Research Advisory Board (RAB), and Research Computing Advisory Board (RCAG).

Erin Gillan

Administrative Secretary
Office of the Vice-President (Research & Innovation)
Phone number: 
519-824-4120 x56677
Office: 
University Centre, Room 416

Provides administrative and clerical support to the Office of the Vice-President (Research & Innovation) and to the Executive Assistant to the Vice-President (Research & Innovation). Handles document management activities for the office, and assists with office activities and events.  

Liz Snyder

Director, Research Communications
Research Communications
Phone number: 
519-824-4120 Ext. 53781
Office: 
University Centre, Room 451

Provides leadership for all communications initiatives for the Office of the Vice-President (Research & Innovation) and Research Services Office, serves as direct communications liaison with the Vice-President (Research & Innovation).

Cate Willis

Project and Communications Officer
Research Communications
Office: 
University Centre, Room 451

Manages digital communications, including social media and website content, as well as the SPARK team, for the Office of the Vice-President (Research & Innovation) and the Research Services Office.