VPR Strategic Plan 2007 - 2016

(Under major revisions; new version coming soon)

UTSA has already begun its journey toward becoming a Premier Research Institution. The initial thrust has resulted from the unprecedented growth in enrollment, addition of new research faculty, and the administrative commitment to have a world-class research university in San Antonio. Research growth of approximately 300% over the past five years, increased collaborations with the Health Science Center (UTHSCSA), Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research (SFBR), the military and commercial partners are all indicative of the commitment to this research path. UTSA, in its strategic plan, has identified core strengths in Security, Health, Alternate Energy, Sustainability, Human and Social Development. Research growth is benefiting from major increases in physical infrastructure such as the recently completed Tobin Laboratories and Biotechnology, Science and Engineering (BSE) research building; the Science and Engineering Building II currently under construction; completion of the MEMS Center; and plans for Promenade Plaza and renovation of the West Campus laboratories. The research effort has also benefited from the development of a comprehensive Office of Research with experienced personnel and new policies, programs and interfacing with the new UT System Office of the Assistant Provost of Research and Technology Transfer. The establishment of a central Laboratory Animal Resource Center, a joint Office of Technology Transfer and Commercialization (with UTHSCSA), and a comprehensive evaluation of UTSA's Research Centers, Institutes and Core research support facilities all are indicative of the institutional commitment to making UTSA a Premier Research Institution.

While the above are positive indicators of the potential for UTSA, to become a premier research institution, in no way do they assure this. A well thought-out and accepted strategic plan with specific research goals and milestones is essential if the UTSA is to reach this goal by 2016. Although UTSA enjoys several strategic advantages such as significant research partnerships, there are still some potential barriers and strategic challenges that must be addressed. Moreover, it must be recognized that research, by its very nature, is highly variable and new discoveries constantly alter the path forward. More than any other area in academia, research changes the fastest, and the road to "premier research" is the least predictable. New opportunities will constantly arise because of new discoveries, external factors and organizational dynamics. UTSA must be postured to capitalize on every opportunity the future presents.

Thus, the purpose of this document is to lay out a roadmap to take UTSA to the level of a "Premier Research Institution" by 2016. The plan calls for specific changes with corresponding metrics. However, UTSA must remain flexible and agile in order to respond to new opportunities and challenges. It cannot afford to be risk-adverse in this pursuit. It must constantly be aware of new opportunities, new questions and how to best answer them-- but that is the very nature of research.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Office of Vice President for Research (VPR) at the University of Texas at San Antonio is to promote all aspects of research and other creative endeavors among all colleges, research units and collaborating partners. This includes strategic planning, developing and implementing focused research thrusts, building infrastructures to support research, creating policies to provide an environment conducive to collaborative scholarship, and promoting the importance and visibility of the institution's research activities. The office manages a variety of research programs, including seed funds for pilot projects, minority research grants, initiatives for commercialization of intellectual property, and assists in local and state economic development through interactions with public and private parties, the military community and industry.

Vision Statement

To be a premier public research university, providing access to educational excellence and preparing citizen leaders for the global environment.

Core Values

We encourage an environment of dialogue and discovery, where integrity, excellence, inclusiveness, respect, collaboration and innovation are fostered. UTSA's core values reflect how we have pursued our plan as well as how we will fulfill our mission and realize our vision. Each value reflects rich, shared meaning:

• Integrity: adhering to a standard of core values at UTSA and ensuring that one acts in a fair and ethical fashion
• Excellence: commitment to delivering consistently high quality service, teaching and research through superior performance
• Inclusiveness: fostering diversity and providing access to educational and socioeconomic opportunities for all -- regardless of individual backgrounds and philosophies
• Respect: treating others with civility and openness, recognizing the dignity inherent in each individual
• Collaboration: working with others toward common goals while valuing teamwork, participation, and commitment to public service
• Innovation: encouraging ingenuity, creativity, and discovery

Vice President for Research Strategic Plan 2007 - 2016 (PDF)

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UTSA Strategic Plan - A Shared Vision