Following a national search, the University of Missouri-Kansas City has named Yusheng (Chris) Liu, Ph.D. as its new Vice Chancellor for Research.

Liu brings more than 20 years of experience in working for public research universities as an educator and chief research officer, and he also served as a program director at the National Science Foundation, based out of the Washington, D.C., area. He starts Aug. 1 in his new role at UMKC.

“With his stellar blend of leading research activity at a university, background in leadership at a federal research agency and experience as a faculty member and researcher, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Liu to UMKC,” said UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal. “He should be able to make  an immediate impact in the top-priority work of expanding our research capabilities and elevating the research enterprise at UMKC.”

“I truly believe in the power of science, innovation, entrepreneurship, education and policy to change the world,” Liu said.

UMKC is the only public research university in greater Kansas City, and works in partnership with the community to solve its most important challenges through research-infused teaching, service and discovery activities. Liu will lead the way for UMKC to help accomplish aggressive research goals in science, technology and the humanities. The strategic plan includes a goal to double annual research grants from $29.2 million in 2018 to $60 million by 2028.

“UMKC research makes a significant impact, and we look forward to working with Dr. Liu in growing our initiatives and taking our work to an even higher level,” said UMKC Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Barbara Bichelmeyer. “His leadership will infuse our discovery enterprise with renewed energy and an expanded scope that will benefit our students, faculty, staff and our community.”

Liu most recently served as associate vice president for research at California State University, Fullerton, the largest of the 23 campuses in the Cal State system, where he was a tenured professor. He managed operations for the Office of Research and Sponsored Projects, working closely with research center directors, faculty, deans, chairs and community business partners to promote research and innovation. In addition, Liu administered two annual grants programs to enhance both STEM and non-STEM research, teaching and creative activities.

“I truly believe in the power of science, innovation, entrepreneurship, education and policy to change the world,” Liu said. “UMKC, with its dynamic new chancellor and outstanding faculty and staff, has the potential to become a global resource for addressing our most significant challenges.”