Dear colleagues,
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Pina D'Agostino as associate vice-president research (AVPR), with her term commencing on April 1, 2025 and running through to June 30, 2026.
Giuseppina (Pina) D'Agostino
A renowned legal scholar, Professor D'Agostino is the Tier 1 York Research Chair in Intellectual Property Law, Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technologies; founder and director of the IP Innovation Clinic; co-director of the Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Society; and scientific director of the CFREF-funded project Connected Minds. Her research and leadership have significantly contributed to advancing innovation, entrepreneurship and responsible AI governance. As a faculty member at Osgoode Hall Law School, she has been instrumental in mentoring the next generation of legal scholars and innovators. In her new role, Professor D'Agostino will continue to foster interdisciplinary research and drive impactful initiatives across the University.
On behalf of the Research & Innovation Division, I would also like to extend my gratitude to Jennifer Hyndman and Jen Steeves for their leadership and dedication. Their contributions have been vital in fostering a strong, dynamic research culture at York, and I wish them both continued success in their future endeavors.
Professor Hyndman has served as AVPR for over four years, making significant contributions to strengthening York's research environment. Her leadership has been particularly impactful in enhancing organized research units and advancing research in the social sciences and humanities while supporting interdisciplinary collaboration and research excellence. She will continue in her AVPR role until April 15 to support the transition and looks forward to furthering her focus on her externally funded research and teaching.
Professor Steeves has played a pivotal role in advancing research initiatives in STEM and health fields during her three years of service as AVPR. She has also led impactful projects, including Discover York Academics and the Research Commons, both of which have significantly strengthened research support and collaboration across the university. Her last day as AVPR will be March 31 and she too looks forward to dedicating more time to her externally funded research and teaching.
With the support of Professor D'Agostino, the Division of Research & Innovation will be undertaking a review of its core functions and organizational structure to ensure we are meeting the needs of our diverse community in advancing the goals of the Strategic Research Plan (SRP) within the current budgetary landscape. An update will be provided following consultations with the Faculties and organized research units.
Amir Asif
Vice-President Research and Innovation
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
