Dear USC Research Community,
I am very pleased to convey that, after a USC-wide search, Jeri Muniz has been appointed as Associate Vice President of Research Administration (AVP-RA) in the USC Office of Research and Innovation (OORI).
Ms. Muniz brings of wealth of experience and expertise to this role, having begun her journey in research administration while a student at the University of California, Irvine. After receiving her B.A. in Psychology, she served in key positions within the UCI Office of Research. These roles provided broad exposure to research administration, including sponsored projects administration, human and animal subjects research, conflict of interest, and research compliance. Ms. Muniz joined the Trojan Family as the Executive Director for the Department of Contracts and Grants in March 2008 and assumed responsibility for the overall management and administration of pre- and post-award non-financial services related to extramural proposals and awards. In July 2022, she was promoted to interim Associate Vice President of Research Administration expanding her oversight and role in supporting the USC research community.
Since assuming this role in an interim capacity in July 2022, Jeri has exhibited outstanding leadership, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to advancing research administration at USC. Her strategic perspectives and collaborative approach have become invaluable to fostering innovation and the excellence of our research administration enterprise.
As AVP-RA, Ms. Muniz is responsible for several key areas, including the Department of Contracts and Grants, Office of the Protection of Research Subjects, Department of Animal Resources, the operation of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, Research Technology Services, and Office of Research Integrity. Her experience and expertise position her well to play a pivotal role in leading the OORI research administration team to ensure the robust growth and success of USC research.
I would like to extend my gratitude to the search committee for their time, effort, and dedication throughout the selection process. Your effort in finding the right candidate is truly appreciated.
Please join me in congratulating Jeri Muniz on her appointment and welcoming her in her new role.
Sincerely,
Ishwar K. Puri
SVP, Research & Innovation and Professor