Jacob Jones, a Kobe Steel Distinguished Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, has been appointed to serve as the interim associate vice chancellor for research initiatives, effective Aug. 15. This position will report to Vice Chancellor Krista Walton.
“Jacob is a world-class researcher and dynamic leader. His track record of innovation, including founding a highly successful NSF Science and Technology Center, positions him perfectly to make an immediate impact on the research enterprise,” said Walton, vice chancellor for research and innovation. “I look forward to working with him more closely during this interim period to evaluate the funding landscape and identify new opportunities for NC State.”
Jones, who is also the director of the Science and Technologies for Phosphorus Sustainability (STEPS) Center and director and principal investigator of the Research Triangle Nanotechnology Network (RTNN), will keep his academic appointment in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and will continue to serve in his administrative capacities for both STEPS and RTNN.
As the interim AVC for research initiatives, Jones will manage a range of institutional research activities, with a focus on the following:
- Overseeing the 13 centers and institutes administered by the Office of Research and Innovation.
- Leading the Laboratory for Analytic Sciences (LAS), National Security and Special Research Initiatives (NSSRI), and Quantum Initiative.
- Identifying emerging and advanced research domains such as applied research, artificial intelligence, data science, advanced manufacturing, quantum computing and more.
Jones, an active member of NC State’s Research Leadership Academy, has published over 300 papers and received several awards for his research and education activities — most recently, the 2025 Alexander Quarles Holladay Medal for Excellence, the highest honor bestowed by NC State and the university’s Board of Trustees. Jones formerly served as director of the Analytical Instrumentation Facility, one of NC State’s six Shared Core Research Facilities. He earned his Ph.D. at Purdue University.
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