Leadership transition for bioengineering research institute

From: Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research
Sent: Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026, 3 p.m.
To: KU Lawrence research leaders, Office of Research staff

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to share that Candan Tamerler has been named director of KU's Institute for Bioengineering Research (IBER), following the retirement of Paulette Spencer.

Throughout her career, Candan has built and led interdisciplinary research initiatives that bring together expertise from engineering, life sciences and related fields. Combined with her leadership experience in the Office of Research and School of Engineering, this background positions her exceptionally well to advance IBER's role in fostering collaborative bioengineering research across the One KU research enterprise.

As part of this transition, Candan will step back from many of her associate vice chancellor for research responsibilities to focus on leading IBER. She will also convene a task force to assess future opportunities and help chart the institute’s next phase of growth and impact.

Please join me in congratulating Candan on her new role and in thanking Paulette for her many years of outstanding service and leadership. We are excited for IBER’s next chapter and the contributions it will continue to make to the One KU research enterprise.

Respectfully,
Shelley

Shelley Hooks
Vice Chancellor for Research