Originally published through the Research Radar e-newsletter
on January 15, 2025.
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Letter from the VPR
Colleagues,
Whenever I meet someone new and introduce myself as a professor, their first question is usually, “What do you teach?” While our students are undeniably the focus of our mission, our role extends beyond conveying what is already known. Creating new knowledge through research is central to the mission of an R1 university. As a land-grant institution, we are explicitly charged with the missions of teaching, research, and service. The Kellogg Commission on the Future of State and Land-Grant Universities has reinterpreted these roles as “learning, discovery, and engagement.” I appreciate this modern interpretation, as it feels more inclusive of all our faculty’s scholarly work.
It has been an honor to represent you and your research and scholarship to our university’s senior leadership this year. I have stated this before, and I will say it again: the most enjoyable part of my job has been witnessing your work and its impact on our university, state, nation and the world. I am continually amazed by the breadth of scholarship that originates from your intellect and passion. Thank you for allowing me to represent you during such an interesting year.
I came to Washington State University because of the quality of the faculty, its beautiful rural location, the endless outdoor opportunities, and, most importantly, the freedom to explore the scientific ideas that have always intrigued me. The privilege of pursuing a different path to study problems that motivate me personally is immense. I am deeply grateful to the colleagues who have accompanied me on this journey and who have taught me so much along the way. None of the qualities that attracted me to WSU have changed.
After this year, I am enormously optimistic about the future of our institution and its research contributions. Although we are experiencing significant changes in our leadership positions, we need not fear this change. New leaders bring diverse experiences and backgrounds to build upon what their predecessors have left us. My observation is that our searches for new leaders are informed by who we are, our shared goals, and where we currently stand.
Most importantly, I am excited about the Office of Research under Kim Christen’s leadership. This past year, I witnessed her strategic thinking, inclusive approach, and strong work ethic. We were fortunate to have a highly competitive pool of candidates with deep experience at WSU, and her talents truly stood out. Please join me in welcoming her as she represents us in our research mission.
As for me, I am eager to focus on my own research and directing the FAA’s Aviation Sustainability Center (ASCENT). Like you, I believe deeply in my research mission and find that my hours with my research team are the highlight of my week. And most importantly, I am excited about spending more time supporting my wife, Lisa, and her work with her family.
Thank you once again for your trust and support. It has truly been an honor. Don’t be strangers!
Michael Wolcott
Regents ProfessorInterim Vice President for Research
Research Happens Every Day
Research Happens Every Day recognizes the fact that faculty make contributions to the WSU research enterprise every day of the year.
The Office of Research Advancement and Partnerships is continuing to collect stories of the impacts of faculty research, scholarship, and creative activity. Complete the survey to share how your work has improved lives and served society on any scale, from local to global.
Upcoming Events
New Faculty Information Series
In our fall 2024 series, we briefly introduced you to the eREX form. Now we will delve deeper into eREX specifics – what is it, why is it important, and how to complete and submit it. Additionally, learn about the Centers at WSU that are available as resources for researchers. Join us via Zoom at 2:30 p.m., on Tuesday, January 21. See other upcoming sessions in the series and RSVP online.
Research Impact Challenge
The Office of Research Advancement and Partnerships presents the Research Impact Challenge at WSU. Comprised of four weekly sessions beginning January 27 (in-person, Pullman) and January 30 (virtual, all campuses), challenge activities will help you to better understand and manage your online scholarly/research presence and measure the success and impact of your scholarly work/research. See the full schedule and RSVP online.
NIFA Grant Applicant/Awardee Technical Assistance Webinar
Join the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) from 9-10:30 a.m., on Thursday, February 3, to learn “how to be a good science communicator” and have your questions answered by NIFA staff. In this fifth installment of the Grant Applicant/Awardee Technical Assistance (GAATA) series, learn more about:
Importance of plain language : communicating to technical and non-technical audiences
Impacts and Outcomes : how to differentiate and communicate the benefits to society
How NIFA uses the reports: how the work done by them impacts us as an agency
RSVP to attend. You may submit any questions on this topic during registration.
For Your Information
Kim Christen named vice president for research
Christen, who has served as associate vice president/vice chancellor for Research Advancement and Partnerships since 2023, will officially step into the role Jan. 20, 2025.
Jeremy Tamsen appointed director of the Office of Commercialization
The Office of Research has appointed Jeremy Tamsen as the director of the Office of Commercialization. His took the helm on Dec. 1.
Commercialization Gap Funding awards winners for 2025
The Office of Commercialization has awarded six WSU researchers with the Commercialization Gap Fund (CGF). The CGF supports research projects with high market potential and provides researchers up to $50,000 to demonstrate their innovation(s) can make an economic impact on society.
The 2025 CGF awardees and their projects are:
- Jeffrey Bell – “Efficient Decoupling of Electrolytes with Enhanced Buffer System and Magnetic Field Assistance for Stable and High-Energy Aqueous Zinc-Manganese Dioxide Batteries”
- Liang Yu – “Two-stage hyperthermophilic anaerobic acidification and engineered yeast fermentation system for the conversion of food waste into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and bioplastic”
- Glen House, Dominic Brenner, and William Clegern – “A new innovative adaptive technology device to improve bowel function and continence in individuals with neuro-degenerative diseases and spinal cord injuries”
- Manoj Karkee – “Robotic System for King-Flower Pollination in Commercial Orchards”Yuehe Lin – “Highly Durable Bimetallic Phosphide Nanofoam Catalysts for Efficient Total Water Splitting”
- Anjali Sharma – “Trehalose-terminated mixed layered dendrimer composition”
Sunflare chosen as name for WSU’s colorful next apple
Washington State University’s newest apple, WA 64, has an official brand name: Sunflare.