Dear Colleagues,

I am writing to share some exciting news about a new position that has been established at UCSF, Vice Chancellor for Science Policy and Strategy. We are currently the #1 public recipient of NIH funding, having a distinct reputation for innovation and discovery. However, as we all know, the funding environment for science and research, as well as general public opinion, can be tenuous and volatile. To sustain and advance our mission, demonstrating proactive leadership in setting and influencing science strategy and public policy will be essential in the immediate and near future. This new position has been created to help UCSF do this.

I am very pleased to announce that Keith Yamamoto PhD, has been selected to serve in this vital role effective immediately. The Vice Chancellor for Science Policy and Strategy (VC-SPS), who will report directly to the Chancellor, will develop, oversee and implement policy, strategy and direction for UCSF, specifically with respect to the biomedical sciences. Working with the UCSF leadership and scientific community, the VC-SPS will engage with state and federal government agencies and other entities that impact scientific policy and control and disburse resources that are needed to translate policy into action. With the objective of influencing and shaping public policy for the future of life sciences, the VC-SPS will represent the full range of science-related interests of UCSF faculty, develop and articulate UCSF scientific strategies, and convey these interests and strategies to the appropriate entities in Washington, DC; Sacramento; and elsewhere. The position of VC-SPS will work closely with the Vice Chancellor – Strategic...