Cynthia Carnes, the new vice president for research and innovation, joined the University of Minnesota on July 31.

Chief among her responsibilities are leading efforts to sustain and strengthen the University’s research enterprise, enhancing operations and interdisciplinary collaboration, and expanding partnerships across industry, government and communities statewide. In this critical leadership role, she will serve as the University’s chief research officer across all campuses and locations and as a key member of the University Cabinet.

Get to know her a little better through the Q&A below.

What excites you about joining the University of Minnesota?
The land-grant mission of the University is exciting to me as I’ve spent my academic year at another Big Ten land-grant institution. The breadth, scope and complexity of the research and innovation enterprise at the U is energizing, and I am excited by the environment and the possibilities envisioned in the new strategic plan.

What were your favorite things you learned about the University of Minnesota through the appointment process?
There are so many impressive things happening here that were new to me that it’s hard to pick. I will say that the University of Minnesota press has a great selection of titles (including cookbooks!).

What are your top priorities in your first few months at the University amidst the current challenges in higher education?
I want to more fully understand the research landscape across the campuses and I plan to visit all the campuses over the coming months. This landscape analysis will be critical in leveraging existing and emerging strengths to support the research and innovation elements of the strategic plan. I will also be focused on evaluating the RIO operations with an eye toward operational excellence and efficiency to support the research and innovation community. I also want to support a broader communication strategy to highlight the impact and value of our work.

What drew you to your profession?
I began my career as a pharmacist, which was not surprising as both of my parents were pharmacists and I spent a lot of time around their two pharmacies in Austin, Texas, as a child. They both modeled a core value of service to others and supported my intellectual curiosity. My career as a pharmacist, researcher and research administrator have allowed me the opportunity to continue to discover and learn, while supporting others.

What are some of your hobbies?
I enjoy spending time with my two standard poodles who are retired from showing and performance sports. Recreational baking and cooking are something I enjoy and my husband appreciates! We both enjoy hiking and are looking forward to checking out the local trails.

What is the best advice you have received?
From my mother: “The harder you work, the luckier you will be.”