Goal 3
Develop a thoughtful research strategy that leverages NECO’s strengths while acknowledging its limitations, fostering educational opportunities for students to explore how evidence-based research enhances patient care.
Research is a core component of NECO’s mission. A well-articulated research strategy should build upon NECO’s existing strengths—such as our existing faculty expertise, state-of-the-art clinical facilities, agile research environment—while also recognizing current limitations in infrastructure, funding, and staffing. Such a plan must support our efforts to recruit, retain, and develop world-class faculty researchers, foster a positive institutional reputation, create robust educa- tional opportunities for our students, and produce discoveries that advance patient care.
NECO remains committed to thoughtfully creating a research strategic plan that aligns with and supports the institution’s broader strategic objectives; however, we believe the best way to do this is to convene a group after the Director of Research returns from sabbatical in May 2025. Accordingly, we have presented one tactic with the understanding that a plan will be forthcoming in the Summer of 2025.
TACTIC 1
Establish a working group consisting of key research faculty and administrators to develop a robust, data-informed research strategy for NECO.
This group will coordinate the collection of relevant financial and operational data, engage stakeholders, and draft actionable recommendations to guide institutional decision-making over the next five years.The working group will be guided by five key objectives:
1. Gather Comprehensive Financial & Operational Data
Review current and historical data on research programs–both animal and human research, including expenditures, revenues, allocated faculty FTEs, and associated overhead.
Identify gaps in funding streams, potential inefficiencies, and opportunities to reallocate resources for greater impact.
Examine the cost-effectiveness and outcomes of our graduate programs to determine their value for the institution and students.
2. Explore Shifts in External Funding Policies
Monitor changes in federal administration and evaluate their impact on NIH/NEI priorities and future funding opportunities, as well as research directions.
Explore alternative funding sources, including industry partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and international collaborations, to diversify NECO’s research revenue streams.
3. Evaluate Institutional Infrastructure
Consider current laboratory spaces, equipment, and administrative support to determine if they adequately support existing and emerging research areas.
4. Identify Opportunities for Faculty Development and Collaboration
Identify faculty needs for professional development and mentorship.
Develop clear pathways for hiring and retaining top tier funded researchers and build on NECO’s reputation for excellence.
5. Integrate Student Education and Research
Align research priorities with graduate program goals to enhance student learning experiences and ensure strong mentorship.
Evaluate how student engagement in research contributes to program quality, institutional reputation, and overall mission fulfillment.
RECOMMENDED TIMELINE
Summer 2025
