Bill Dean has been selected as executive director of the Auburn Research and Technology Foundation.
A financial and research park executive with more than 30 years’ experience, Dean is a past president of the Association of University Research Parks and a former director of Cummings Research Park in Huntsville and Piedmont Triad Research Park in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He also served as the first chairman of the North Carolina Research Parks Network.
“Bill has a demonstrated track record of success in the innovation and idea spaces that are our nation’s research parks,” said Jim Weyhenmeyer, Auburn University vice president for research and economic development. “Under his leadership, I am confident that the growth we are seeing both in Auburn Research Park and at the Auburn Research and Technology Foundation will continue and will evolve to meet the complex needs of our institution’s stakeholders and partners.”
The Auburn Research and Technology Foundation supports Auburn University’s research enterprises through contracts and partnerships, turning research into commercialized opportunities and new business ventures. It is located at Auburn Research Park, adjacent to the university campus.
“My interest over the course of my career has been at the intersection of business and technology, working with those who innovate, collaborate and create new, world-changing technologies,” Dean said.
In addition to his work with ARTF, Dean will also serve as executive director of the Office of External Engagement and Support, a division of the Office of the Vice President for Research and Economic Development.
