The Office of Research Development is responsible for supporting Syracuse University’s proposal, research and faculty development efforts. This includes facilitating team-based collaboration around strategic funding opportunities, and managing the University’s internal funding competitions, including both seed grant programs and externally funded limited submissions.
Chetna Chianese, Senior Director of Research Development
As the Senior Director of Research Development, Chetna is responsible for supporting Syracuse University’s proposal, research, and faculty development efforts. Chetna works to facilitate team-based collaborations around strategic funding opportunities; develop institutional research infrastructure, including relevant staffing, training, and systems; and manages the University’s internal funding competitions.
Melissa Whipps, Director of Research Development
As the Director of Research Development, Melissa provides research development support to faculty and research staff across campus, with a focus on science and mathematics departments in the College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Education. Melissa also facilities and conducts training sessions on preparing and writing grants for a variety of funders. Prior to her move into the Office of Research, Melissa worked in Research Development in the College of Arts and Sciences and previously in Corporate and Foundation Relations.
Sarah Workman, Associate Director for Research Development for the Humanities
As Associate Director for Research Development for the Humanities, Sarah supports faculty in efforts to raise their research achievement and recognition by identifying funding sources for their work, assisting with writing grants and proposals, and helping coordinate nominations for honorary awards. Positioned as part of both the Office of Research and the College of Arts & Sciences, Sarah’s role supports Humanities research across the University. You can find additional information about humanities research support here.
Cassandra Ellis, Operations Specialist, Research Development
As the Operations Specialist for Research Development, Cassandra supports University research initiatives through communications, event management, and overall operations for the Research Development team. She organizes and facilitates information and training series events for faculty and research staff, coordinates educational workshops, in-service trainings, and other research-related events in conjunction with the entire development team. Additionally, Cassandra maintains data systems and manages the periodic Office of Research Newsletter, highlighting research news happening in the University community.