The University of Guelph has appointed a seasoned innovation leader and two-time U of G graduate to head its Research Innovation Office (RIO).
Jessica Bowes will join U of G as the inaugural assistant vice-president (research innovation and knowledge mobilization). Her appointment begins Feb. 1, 2021.
She will lead in devising and implementing strategy to advance research innovation at U of G, already recognized as one of Canada’s most innovative universities. Bowes will head the University’s work in knowledge mobilization and commercialization, new venture creation, industry liaison and R&D partnerships, including technology transfer.
“We are ecstatic to appoint Ms. Bowes as the University’s first assistant VP for research innovation and knowledge mobilization,” said Malcolm Campbell, vice-president (research).
“Ms. Bowes brings not only tremendous practical strengths and experience to this new position, but also incredible energy, passion and vision for innovation that will be a positive game changer for our efforts to share our knowledge with the world in impactful ways that truly improve life.”
He said the new appointee will work with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders to help build on U of G’s longstanding strengths across the social sciences, humanities, and life and physical sciences – particularly important as Canada looks to recover from the economic and societal impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Currently vice-president, commercialization, at Bioenterprise Corporation Canada, Bowes has nearly a decade’s worth of leadership with the organization, one of Canada’s leading agri-food business accelerators.
Ms. Bowes has served as a director with the Ottawa-based BioTalent Canada, a catalyst for growth of Canada’s bio-economy, and as a member of the industry advisory committee for the Canadian Wine and Food Institute.
She earned two degrees at the University of Guelph, including a graduate degree in human health and nutritional sciences.
Prof. John Livernois will continue to lead the RIO until September 2020; directors Steve De Brabandere and Dana McCauley will head the office along with Campbell until February 2021.
In making the announcement, Campbell thanked Livernois for his leadership of the RIO during the past year and thanked selection committee members for their work in selecting such an outstanding appointee.