University of Mississippi Announces New Vice Chancellor for Research, Economic Development

Oxford, Mississippi —The University of Mississippi made a significant announcement on July 9, 2024, naming John Higginbotham as the new Vice Chancellor of Research and Economic Development. John will take up his new responsibilities starting August 1, 2024, subject to approval from the Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees.

A Pivotal Role for the University

Higginbotham, who boasts over 25 years of expertise in research, grant writing, and university leadership, is well-poised to guide the university’s innovation and economic development strategies. As part of his role, he plans to boost the University’s research profile and its economic impact at both regional and national levels.

Thrilled about the new appointment, Chancellor Glenn Boyce said, “Dr. Higginbotham’s extensive and versatile research leadership background forms a strong foundation for advancing our university’s capacity for innovation and economic development. He will lead us to new heights and create exciting opportunities for our talented students, faculty and researchers, whose discoveries change lives and address society’s most pressing challenges.”

The Growth of an Experienced Leader

In the course of his career spanning 24 years, Higginbotham served in various leadership capacities at the University of Alabama. His contributions include founding the Institute for Rural Health and Research and the National Center on Forensics, revealing his knack for initiating successful programs. He holds tenure as a professor in the Department of Community Medicine and Population Health and has also performed key roles for the University of Alabama’s Office of Research and Economic Development. More so, he is denoted as a senior fellow for the Alabama Life Research Institute.

Objectives Moving Forward

As the new Vice Chancellor, Higginbotham aspires to develop an environment that fosters innovative research and encourages interdisciplinary collaborations. Coupled with these, his strategy includes fortifying external relations and greatly contributing to technological advancement, knowledge creation, and community development.

Speaking of his strategic plans, Higginbotham stated – “My primary goal will be to elevate our institution’s research and scholarly activity profile and its economic impact both regionally and nationally. I aim to work with the faculty, staff, and students to foster an environment where innovative research and scholarly activity can thrive, and external partnerships are strengthened.”

An Impressive Track Record

Notably, Higginbotham’s scholarly accomplishments include numerous publications, presentations, and grants. Reacting to the appointment, Provost Noel Wilkin commended Higginbotham as an “accomplished scholar with an impressive record of publications, presentations, grants, and service to his discipline.”

His role sets a significant expectation as far as steering the research agenda, enhancing strategic alignment and fortifying the institution’s reputation is concerned. As he takes up this appointment, the University looks forward to embracing transformative changes and approaching a new horizon of discovery and innovation.