After an extensive national search, UAB has named Kevyn E. Merten, Ph.D., as the senior associate vice president for Research Operations, effective Jan. 14, 2025.
Merten will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Office of Research. This role includes managing business operations, compliance, facilities, communications, human resources and procurement. Reporting to the vice president for Research, Merten will collaborate with the university’s leadership to implement UAB’s strategic research vision. Additionally, Merten will play a pivotal role in driving the Research Strategic Initiative: Growth with Purpose, leveraging his expertise in change management, process improvement and infrastructure development. His collaborative, ethical and mission-oriented leadership style, combined with his strong analytical and tactical capabilities, will be invaluable as UAB continues to enhance its research operations and achieve its ambitious goals.
Merten will join UAB from the University of Louisville, where he currently serves as the associate vice president for Research & Innovation and chief of staff for the executive vice president for Research & Innovation. Merten joined the University of Louisville in 2012 and brings over 12 years of experience in research and innovation leadership. He earned his bachelor of science degree in agricultural biotechnology at the University of Kentucky, and his master’s and doctoral degrees in pharmacology and toxicology at the University of Louisville.
“Kevyn has a proven track record in overseeing critical research functions. His implementation initiatives have significantly advanced the research enterprise at his current institution, contributing to a substantial increase in research expenditures,” said Chris Brown, Ph.D., UAB vice president for Research. “We are confident that he will greatly benefit our institution and help us reach new heights in research excellence.”
“I am thrilled to join UAB,” Merten said. “The university’s commitment to growth, exemplified by the Research Strategic Initiative: Growth with Purpose, aligns perfectly with my career goals. I look forward to enhancing processes, improving engagement and building new relationships to help UAB achieve its ambitious research objectives.”
The comprehensive search was led by a university-wide committee co-chaired by Jason Nichols, O.D., Ph.D., senior associate vice president for Research, and Katie Crenshaw, J.D., UAB’s chief risk and compliance officer. The executive search firm LeadExec and Lisa Marks provided excellent support throughout the process.
