UBC computer scientist named VP research and innovation

Gail Murphy, a leading expert in software engineering and chief scientist at Vancouver-based Tasktop Technologies, has been appointed UBC’s Vice-President, Research and Innovation. She will formally begin the role on August 14, 2017.

As UBC’s Associate Vice-President Research pro tem Murphy was involved in the strategy and operations of UBC’s Research Excellence Cluster initiative, led growing interactions with Microsoft, helped found the Cascadia Urban Analytics Consortium (a joint initiative with the University of Washington) and led efforts to improve research infrastructure, including the Advanced Research Computing team.

She is also co-founder of Tasktop Technologies Incorporated, which develops integration technology to improve software development and delivery.

Murphy has held a number of administrative positions during her time at UBC. She served as an associate head for the graduate program in Computer Science (2001-2003), acting co-head of Computer Science (2010-2011) and associate dean, research and graduate programs in the Faculty of Science (2013-2016). 

“I’m excited to work with Professor Murphy in advancing UBC's excellence in, and contributions to, research and innovation as part of UBC’s strategic plan,” said Santa J Ono, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of British Columbia in making the announcement.

“As we prepare to welcome Professor Murphy, I’d like to give my personal thanks to Professor Helen Burt who has acted in the role of Vice-President, Research pro tem since June 1, 2016,” he added.

“Over the last year, UBC has experienced tremendous research growth under Professor Burt’s leadership. She will formally step down from the role on August 13, 2017 and return to her position as Associate Vice-President, Research and Innovation.”

Research is a central component of UBC’s mandate as a public university. The Vice-President, Research and Innovation portfolio supports our research and innovation activities and the work of UBC researchers with strategic information, resources and tools.

The search committee comprised representatives from the Board of Governors, Faculties, senior staff and UBC’s student community. As part of the process, the final candidates also met with 50 individuals outside of the search committee including members of faculty, staff, students and the senior administration.