Chapman University named Thomas Piechota its first vice president of research, effective Sept. 1. The new position is meant to tap university growth in research and funding, according to current chancellor and incoming president Daniele Struppa.
Piechota was most recently vice president for research and economic development at University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is a 17-year-veteran of that school where he’s also a professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.
He has helped UNLV increase research funding, outside partnerships and entrepreneurial activities, according to Chapman.
The vice president of research role at Chapman is tasked with expanding efforts currently run by the university’s Office of Research and Sponsored Programs.
Piechota received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Northern Arizona University and master’s and doctorate degrees in civil and environmental engineering from the University of California-Los Angeles.
