Colleen Burton

Colleen Dougherty Burton serves as Assistant Vice President for Research at Syracuse University, where she provides strategic leadership for business operations, financial planning and analysis, research data analytics, and initiatives that advance the University’s research mission. With over 20 years of experience spanning higher education finance, research administration, and social science research, Dr. Burton brings a distinctive combination of technical expertise and strategic vision to her role. She leads the Office of Research’s Finance & Administration team, Data Analytics & IT team, and the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, collaborating with stakeholders across the University to support and enhance institutional research capacity.  Prior to her current appointment, Colleen served in progressive leadership roles within Syracuse University’s Office of Research. Her career includes financial leadership and analysis positions at Cornell University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Lockheed Martin Corporation, where she developed expertise in budgeting, financial analysis, and strategic planning within complex organizational structures.  She was selected for the 2024-2025 cohort of the Emerging Leaders Program of the National Association of College & University Business Officers.  Colleen holds a PhD in political science from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs and is affiliated with the political science department as an Assistant Professor by courtesy.