Prof. Rich Moccia has been reappointed associate vice-president research (strategic partnerships). His new five-year term begins Sept. 1.
He was first appointed in August 2009 after serving as interim AVPR for 18 months.
Moccia is credited with playing a leadership role in negotiations for the renewed partnership between the University and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in 2008.
He also helped create several high-level programs aimed at training future agri-food leaders, connecting researchers with stakeholders and accelerating commercialization.
Moccia will continue to oversee the U of G-OMAFRA partnership, begun in 1997. Under the partnership, the University manages research and education programs at research stations and regional campuses throughout the province.
He is also responsible for the Catalyst Centre, Animal Care Services, and Laboratory Services, which includes the provincial Animal Health Laboratory and the Agriculture and Food Laboratory.
In addition, he manages capital development projects such as the $25-million Livestock Research and Innovation Centre – Dairy Facility, and fosters relationships with public- and private-sector partners.
“I look forward to forming new collaborations and to continuing to work with the dedicated people at U of G and OMAFRA to strengthen our successful partnership,” Moccia said.
“The partnership is critical to the University and province, advancing knowledge and developing talent and innovation while returning millions of dollars to the Ontario economy annually.”
Moccia has been a professor in the Department of Animal and Poultry Science for nearly 30 years. A researcher, educator and extension specialist in the agri-food sector, he developed the Alma Aquaculture Research Station and has served as director of the animal research program.
He has won numerous teaching and research awards, including a Distinguished Professor Teaching Award from the U of G Faculty Association, a Distinguished Extension Service Award and a National Research Excellence Award.