Harrison appointed as inaugural deputy director of Discovery Park

Marietta L. Harrison, professor of medicinal chemistry and molecular pharmacology in the College of Pharmacy and special advisor for strategic initiatives in the Office of the Executive Vice President for Research and Partnerships, will be taking on responsibilities as the inaugural deputy director of Discovery Park effective Thursday (Oct. 1).

Harrison will work closely with Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, the new chief scientist and executive director of Discovery Park, and with faculty across campus to help design and craft the future vision and strategic plan for Discovery Park. Among her duties as deputy director will be the launching and oversight of the new "Pillars of Excellence in the Life Sciences" initiative. 

"Marietta's capabilities and knowledge of Purdue and Discovery Park will add tremendous value to our efforts as a team of researchers seeking solutions to key challenges," said Díaz de la Rubia in announcing the appointment.  "I am extremely delighted that she will actively participate on the Discovery Park leadership team and look forward to working with her."

Her appointment reflects a reassignment of her efforts in the Office of the Executive Vice President for Research and Partnerships. Her assignment as interim director for the Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering will continue until a new director for RCHE has been selected.  She also will continue serving as director of Discovery Park's Oncological Sciences Center.