Officials are transitioning to a decentralized research model following a review of the University’s research practices, according to a University release.

Provost Brian Blake said in the release Thursday that GW is switching to a “pod” model for research, which will consolidate projects by subject area and provide staff members to guide the production of grant proposals. Blake also announced that Robert Miller, who has served as the vice provost for research since 2018, will step down from his role and become the interim vice dean for research and academic affairs in the School of Medicine and Health Science.

“The Office of the Provost will partner with our community of scholars to define GW’s most effective strategic research synergies while investing in the research infrastructure to support large projects across all the disciplines – whether arts, business, health sciences, humanities, science and engineering and social sciences,” Blake said. “To enable our strategic ambitions, the new model also will include the creation of a new major awards group to amplify our ability to win large center-level awards.”

Blake said in an email to faculty members Thursday that Miller will lead programs that will push forward the science, research, education and academic affairs missions of SMHS.

“I have been fortunate to benefit from the incredible collaboration and teamwork of our leadership, faculty, students and staff as we have worked together to further the University’s research mission,” Miller said in the release. “I look forward to continuing to serve GW in the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, with the active partnership of the provost’s office and University research leadership.”

Blake said the Office of the Vice President for Research has produced several “significant” achievements under Miller’s leadership, like hitting record-breaking research expenditures, implementing advisory groups for research and laboratory best practices and increasing student involvement in research.

“Bob has also streamlined administrative research processes with technological advancements and enhanced infrastructure for processing and supporting faculty awards,” he said.

Blake said that he and Gina Lohr, the senior associate vice president for research, will lead the search for a new vice president for research, which could be someone with a background in social science or humanities research.