Syracuse University names interim provost, VP for research

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud has named Zhanjiang (John) Liu interim vice chancellor and provost, effective Jan. 6, 2020.

Liu has been serving as VP for research, Syracuse said in a news release.

The appointment follows the announcement by Michele Wheatly that she would step down to become special advisor to the chancellor.

“We are fortunate to have a scholar and leader of the highest caliber ready to take on the responsibilities and leadership during this critical time,” Syverud said in a news release. “John has strengthened the research enterprise here and implemented innovative initiatives since he arrived on campus two years ago.”

Syverud also announced that Ramesh Raina, professor and chair of the department of biology, will serve as interim VP for research.

Syverud plans to work with university stakeholders to appoint a search committee for a new provost during the spring semester, the school said.

Liu came to Syracuse University in September 2017 from Auburn University, where he was associate provost and associate VP for research and a member of the faculty in the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences.

Syracuse says Raina was “instrumental” in launching the Syracuse Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement — known as the SOURCE — a “hub for student research, creativity and discovery.” He is also co-director of the interdisciplinary major in biotechnology and a member of the core faculty of the Renée Crown University Honors Program. Raina served as chair of the University Senate agenda committee from 2017 to 2019.

Contact Reinhardt at ereinhardt@cnybj.com

Photo credits: Syracuse University news website