Memorial University is bringing in André McDonald, currently a professor at the University of Alberta, as vice president for research and innovation, effective 19 October.
McDonald is also the executive director of the Alberta Advanced Manufacturing International Hub, a role he has held since March 2025, and the founder and director of the Experiential Learning in Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Program for Black Youth, which he created in January 2021.
He was previously the associate vice president for strategic research initiatives and performance from March 2022 to June 2024, and the associate chair for research in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, where he continues to teach.
At Memorial University, McDonald will be tasked with championing research excellence across all disciplines, strengthening the pathway from discovery to impact and accelerating innovation across the institution.
“I am very excited to join the Memorial community and see great opportunity to continue the forward momentum of research and innovation, while strengthening the excellent foundations that are already present,” says McDonald. “I am looking forward to working closely and collaboratively with researchers, staff, students, and external partners to create meaningful impact for Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond.”
McDonald will be appointed for an initial five-year term, which may be extended by an additional five years.
