Cathy Barrera named assistant vice president for Sponsored Research
Leadership role within Office for Research oversees high-volume unit where innovation, efficiency, and engagement with stakeholders are top priorities
Northwestern University is pleased to announce the appointment of Cathy Barrera as the new assistant vice president for Sponsored Research, effective Sept. 1, 2024. Barrera has been a member of the Northwestern community for about 17 years, currently serving as the senior director of research administration at the McCormick School of Engineering.
In her new role within the Office for Research, Barrera will lead the Sponsored Research unit, a team of 68 staff plus four directors responsible for administering Northwestern's more than $1 billion in annual sponsored funding. She will provide strategic guidance and oversight for all pre-award sponsored research functions, including ensuring compliance, timely review, advisement, negotiation, approval, and authorization of all sponsored research activity. She will report to Chief Research Operations Officer Renee Gonzales.
“I am thrilled to take on this new role and bring my experience and skills to partner with such a hardworking and knowledgeable team where service excellence is crucial,” said Barrera. “My deep engagement with University faculty members and colleagues has equipped me to foster a collaborative environment that enhances our research initiatives. As our research portfolio exceeds $1 billion in annual sponsored funding, I am committed to driving continuous improvement and supporting the University's mission through strategic leadership, dedicated service, and strong partnerships across the institution. I’m eager to roll up my sleeves, get to work, and continue the positive changes happening in Sponsored Research.”
Barrera holds a master's degree in learning and organizational change from Northwestern and a bachelor's degree in finance from the University of Illinois. Her expertise includes federal compliance, university policy, and change management. She has demonstrated exceptional communication, collaboration, project management, problem-solving, and team leadership skills throughout her career at Northwestern.
In her current role at the McCormick School since 2015, Barrera leads strategic management and day-to-day operations of pre- and post-award, supporting over 200 faculty members and students, nine academic departments, and research centers with more than $70 million in annual sponsored research expenditures. She manages a team of 18 staff members and has promoted a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and excellent customer service.
Earlier in her career, Barrera served as assistant director of research administration at McCormick and as a research administrator at the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. Her leadership, communication, and community-building skills supported the faculty and the departmental research staff. She has also been active in several national and University professional organizations relevant to research administration.
"Cathy’s extensive experience and proven leadership in research administration make her an exceptional fit for this role,” said Gonzales. “Her ability to navigate complex situations and foster a culture of collaboration will be invaluable as we continue to grow and enhance our sponsored research enterprise. I look forward to working closely with her to further our shared goals."
Barrera’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Northwestern, as the University strives to enhance the structure and operations of its Sponsored Research office to support a complex and growing research portfolio, noted Eric Perreault, vice president for research. Barrera will be vital in driving a culture of partnership while leading and inspiring staff and optimizing business processes across Sponsored Research to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness.
"I am delighted that Cathy is joining the Office for Research,” said Perreault. “Her familiarity with University research administration and her excellent relationships with faculty members make her an ideal candidate for this pivotal role. Her strategic vision, leadership abilities, and commitment to service excellence will be instrumental as we build greater efficiencies across Sponsored Research in partnership with other University stakeholders." — Matt Golosinski, research communications