Jennifer E. Woodward

  • Vice Chancellor for Sponsored Programs and Research Operations

As Vice Chancellor for Sponsored Programs and Research Operations, Jennifer E. Woodward directs the Office of Sponsored Programs, which is charged with assisting faculty, staff, and students in their efforts to promote and secure sponsored research funding. The office reviews, negotiates, endorses, and provides administrative oversight related to proposals and awards in accordance with all applicable laws, policies, and regulations. The Vice Chancellor for Sponsored Programs and Research Operations serves as the designated university officer empowered for all sponsored research activities. Woodward also provides leadership and strategic direction for the University’s research operations.

Woodward is Professor of Surgery and Immunology and has served as Associate Vice Provost for Research Operations at Pitt, Assistant Dean for Faculty Affairs in the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and Executive Director for Research and Academic Affairs at the Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute. 

Woodward’s academic career began in physiology-based orthopaedic research and evolved to the field of transplantation immunology where she explored the models and mechanisms of transplantation tolerance. Her teaching and mentoring have been multifaceted. From her breadth of experiences,  Woodward has a strong understanding of the academic landscape and a long history and commitment to the professional development of faculty, staff, and students. She frequently is invited to present lectures and workshops for faculty and trainees on academic success, networking, and negotiation. Woodward has more than 20 years of progressive leadership experience in research administration and is continually evolving and innovating the field of research administration and supporting the professional development and success of research administrators. She is an elected member-at-large of the Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI) Board of Directors and Co-chair of SRAI’s Education and Professional Development Committee.

Woodward earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Presbyterian College, a Master of Science degree in biology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and a PhD in microbiology and immunology from the Medical University of South Carolina.