Research & Innovation

Theresa A. Maldonado is the systemwide Vice President for Research & Innovation (R&I) at the University of California Office of the President (UCOP). As the UC system chief research officer, she leads large-scale initiatives by harnessing the expertise and assets of the 10 UC campuses, three UC-managed DOE national labs, UC Agriculture & Natural Resources, and UC Health. VP Maldonado champions team science to produce transformative outcomes through research, research translation, innovation, and policy.

In addition to her long academic background in Texas and California, Dr. Maldonado served two terms at the National Science Foundation, including as Division Director in the Engineering Directorate. At NSF she was engaged in advancing engineering research centers, education, and commercialization initiatives.  Before entering academia, she was a member of technical staff at AT&T Bell Laboratories.

Dr. Maldonado earned the BEE (Highest Honors), MSEE, and PhD degrees in Electrical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.  Her research background is in nonlinear optical devices and materials, electromagnetics, and optical fiber technologies. She is a registered Professional Engineer in Texas and current President of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).