Division of Research and Economic Development names FY27 Faculty Fellows

The Division of Research and Economic Development is pleased to announce the cohort of Faculty Fellows for the 2026-27 academic year. This program embeds faculty in academic leadership roles within the division, pairing them with division leadership on projects tied to Boise State's strategic research priorities. Fellows will serve from Sept. 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027, culminating in a presentation the week of March 29, 2027.

"One of the greatest strengths of this program is that it brings faculty perspectives directly into the priorities of the division and university," said Nancy Glenn, vice president for research and economic development. "At the same time, it provides faculty with meaningful leadership experience in research administration through strategic collaboration with Division leadership. We are excited to work with Jim, Tyler, and Vanessa and look forward to the ideas, expertise, and leadership they bring as we continue to strengthen Boise State's research enterprise."

Industry Marketing Fellowship: Vanessa Fry

Vanessa Fry, associate research professor with the Idaho Policy Institute, has been selected to fill Boise State's new Industry Marketing Fellowship. In this role, Fry will lead efforts to promote the university's research capabilities, strengthen industry engagement, and sharpen the communication strategies that connect Boise State's expertise with the partners who need it. This role will build the support structures that help faculty launch and sustain sponsored research partnerships to support Idaho's economy.

"I've focused my career on bringing together people with different expertise to solve complex problems," Fry said. "I'm excited to help strengthen partnerships between Boise State and industry, government, nonprofit, and community organizations to create new opportunities for collaborative research that delivers meaningful impact for Idaho and beyond."

Research Faculty Fellowship: Jim McNamara

Jim McNamara, professor of geosciences, will advance understanding of structures, pathways, and engagement for research faculty positions at Boise State, reviewing current policies and practices, benchmarking national models, and proposing strategies to grow and support a vibrant research faculty community across campus.

"I'm looking forward to joining an outstanding Division of Research and Economic Development team that has played an important role throughout my own career," McNamara said. "I'm excited for the opportunity to give back by helping other faculty navigate the research enterprise and achieve their research goals."

Research Centers and Institutes: Tyler Brown

Tyler Brown, associate professor in the School of Kinesiology and director of the Center for Orthopedic and Biomechanics Research, will assess the current landscape of Boise State's research centers and institutes, benchmark peer institution models, and develop recommendations to strengthen funding sustainability, coordination, shared infrastructure and visibility across the university's research centers.

"Research centers play a vital role in bringing together people, ideas and resources to address complex challenges," Brown said. "Strengthening these communities will better position Boise State's faculty to pursue innovative research, expand collaboration, and sustain the university's continued research growth."

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