Dr. Kuenstling supports UNMC research under new title

Tess Kuenstling, PhD, has been named the first assistant vice chancellor for research resources.

Dr. Kuenstling had worked nearly three years as the director of research resources, and the change in her title reflects how the position has progressively expanded in scope since the position was established under Tom Rosenquist, PhD, UNMC’s first vice chancellor for research.

“Her new title now matches the title most commonly used at other universities for individuals serving in this role,” said Jennifer Larsen, MD, UNMC vice chancellor for research. “She has brought strong business and project management skills to an expanding portfolio of research resources.”

Just as when she was director of research resources, Dr. Kuenstling will continue to support core facility development, marketing and business operations. This includes acquisition and funding of new technologies, managing research space and assisting with VCR office-sponsored pilot grant programs. She will assist with the submission and review of board of regents centers that have a research focus, be an active member of UNMC’s federal team and help with new faculty recruitment.

“My role is to be a voice for our researchers at the institutional level and establish resources for our investigators enabling their success,” Dr. Kuenstling said.

As the assistant vice chancellor for research resources, Dr. Kuenstling works closely with research partners across campus, including academic affairs, business and finance, environmental health and safety, facilities, information technology and others.

“We have a lot of support at UNMC to advance the success of our research enterprise, and I feel fortunate to work with these partners,” Dr. Kuenstling said.

Dr. Kuenstling received her PhD in pathology and microbiology from UNMC and earned a master’s of business administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

“I have always loved research, but in grad school it was apparent that I didn’t feel the same passion at the bench that other students did,” Dr. Kuenstling said. “I had a very supportive mentor in grad school who allowed me to pursue interests away from the bench while completing my PhD.”

Dr. Kuenstling’s passion for research led her to serve as a project manager for the University of Nebraska’s National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) prior to joining UNMC.

“I am very grateful for this position. I get to talk to talk to researchers about their research goals and help provide institutional support for this research,” Dr. Kuenstling said. “Honestly, it’s perfect. I really enjoy getting to know our faculty, staff and students while working to support their research.”

Dr. Kuenstling commends everyone who makes research possible at UNMC.

“We have a phenomenal team in the office of the vice chancellor for research. Our goal is always to support the success of our UNMC investigators. We have very knowledgeable and passionate people who work in our research cores who care deeply about our investigators,” Dr. Kuenstling said. “I feel privileged to work with our researchers and those who work in the background to support research at UNMC.”