The University of Guelph has named Dr. Mazyar Fallah, vice-president (research and innovation).
Most recently the dean of the College of Biological Science (CBS), Fallah will begin serving in the role May 25 for a five-year term.
Since joining U of G in 2021, Fallah has led one of the University’s most research-intensive colleges, strengthening its impact and global standing in life sciences.
He brings extensive experience in strategic research planning and major funding initiatives that have expanded partnerships with industry, government and communities.
“I am really pleased to see Maz step into this role. He has done strong work at CBS, and more importantly, he understands how to take what we do well as a University and build on it,” says Dr. Rene Van Acker, U of G president and vice-chancellor.
“He brings a thoughtful approach to research and a clear sense of where we can go next. I am looking forward to working with him as we continue to strengthen the impact of our research and innovation and advance our ambition to be a top-tier university.”
Research excellence and impact
As dean, Fallah has positioned CBS as a leader in biological science education and research, supporting faculty and staff in securing external funding and positioning the college to succeed in national and international funding environments.
As a researcher, he has secured millions of dollars in competitive neuroscience funding. This work has contributed to the understanding of cognitive and executive functions, translating discovery into meaningful outcomes and deepening the University’s real-world impact.
Fallah brings a clear understanding of how to align institutional priorities, research systems and infrastructure to increase funding success and extend the impact of research across the University.
His skilled leadership will help advance a high-performing research enterprise that expands collaborations with industry, government and other partners, and generates discoveries that will have national and global impact.
“I am deeply honoured to impart the bold vision and strength of the University’s research and innovation strategy to the world,” Fallah says. “At this competitive juncture, our focus remains on research excellence and impact, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, expanding partnerships and ensuring faculty and staff are supported in their success.”
Strengthening collaborations with industry, government
The University extends its sincere thanks to Dr. Shayan Sharif for his leadership and service, including as interim associate vice-president, research (agri-food partnership), and as vice-president (research and innovation) since October 2023. Over this period, he has strengthened cross-university initiatives including defence research and innovation and the University’s engagement with industry, institutional and government partners, including the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness.
He has also advanced key initiatives to support and modernize the research enterprise, including further implementation of the Research Administration Information Management System (RAIMS).
“I want to thank Shayan for the way he stepped into these roles and the care and effort he brought to the work. He took on very significant responsibility, strengthened important internal and external relationships and helped move forward work that matters to our research community. I am so grateful for his leadership and his contribution,” says Van Acker.
Sharif will assume the position of Distinguished Chair in Agri-Food Biosecurity and will re-assume administrative responsibilities at the Ontario Veterinary College. He will also be an advisor to the president on emerging institutional strategic partnerships.
The University will begin its search for the next dean of the College of Biological Science, with details on interim leadership to be shared in the coming weeks.