Office for Research and Economic Development

WHAT WE DO

The Office for Research and Economic Development (ORED) at the University of Mississippi empowers research that advances knowledge, addresses social challenges, and propels economic growth locally and nationally. Our role is to support researchers, foster collaboration, and facilitate the translation of innovation into progress.

Driving research through connection & collaboration

The Office for Research and Economic Development (ORED) at the University of Mississippi facilitates impactful research that serves Mississippi and beyond. As the flagship institution in Mississippi, we recognize our unique potential to create transformative change. Our focus is on enabling researchers to succeed—providing the guidance, resources, and partnerships that connect innovative ideas with real-world impact.

Explore resources for research

Research studying

For researchers

Discover resources to guide you through the research process—from securing internal funding and forming collaborations to planning for long-term impact and accessing training opportunities.

Industry leader speaking

For business and industry partners

Leverage the expertise of Ole Miss to fuel innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. Find available technologies, connect with top researchers, and stay updated on the latest news and partnerships that can help your organization grow.

Archeological students digging

For students

Gain hands-on experience and make a difference in your field through research opportunities at Ole Miss. Explore experiential learning projects and tools for funding your academic journey.

  • Engineer adjusts tools

    Your researcher toolkit

    Get quick access to everything you need to manage your research projects at Ole Miss. Our toolkit provides step-by-step guidance for proposal development, project management, and award closeout. 

    Access toolkit
  • Two researchers study data

    Connect with research experts

    Collaboration is essential for impactful research, but it’s not always easy to know who to reach out to for help. That’s why we’ve created a simple process for finding collaborators. Whether you need support for an internal research project or are an industry partner seeking expertise, we make it easy to connect with the right people.

    Find a collaborator
  • The latest research

    Stay up to date with the latest discoveries, innovations, and breakthroughs from University of Mississippi researchers.

    Explore research news

ORED leadership team

The Office for Research and Economic Development is made up of key divisions that drive research support and innovation, including Research Integrity, Security, and Compliance (RISC), Sponsored Programs Administration (SPA), Research Development, and Economic Development.
John Higginbotham

John Higginbotham

  • Vice Chancellor of Research and Economic Development, Professor of Pharmacy Administration, Professor of Public Health, and Research Professor in the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Jason Hale

Jason Hale

  • Director of Research Development
Mandy King

Mandy King

  • Assistant Vice Chancellor of Research Integrity, Security, and Compliance
William Nicholas

William Nicholas

  • Economic Development Director
Andrea Rich

Andrea Rich

  • Director Sponsored Programs Administration
Allyson Best

Allyson Best

  • Director of Technology Commercialization
Hughes Miller

Hughes Miller

  • Senior Director Corporate Giving and Business Engagement

Vice Chancellor's staff

Cynthia Evans

Cynthia Evans

  • Sponsored Programs Accountant
Elizabeth Mason

Elizabeth Mason

  • Assistant to the Vice Chancellor - Administrative Support
Liz Williamson

Liz Williamson

  • Education and Training Specialist III