Auburn University Names Ralph Zee Acting Head for Research

Ralph H. Zee

Ralph H. Zee

Ralph H. Zee today was recently named acting associate provost and vice president for research at Auburn University.

Zee has been the associate dean for research in the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering since 2001, directing the research efforts of eight academic departments and 11 research centers. His new position was effective Jan. 1, 2007.

"Innovation and academic discovery are central to Auburn's mission and promote the economic and social well-being of Alabama, the Southeast and our nation," said AU President Ed Richardson.

"Dr. Zee is an accomplished research leader, and I look forward to working with him," Richardson said. "He and the alternative fuels committee have made great progress, and we will continue to move Auburn forward on this critical national priority with his leadership and insight.

Richardson earlier this year elevated alternative energy research to a top university priority and committed $3 million toward the effort in fiscal year 2007. Zee serves as co-chair of Auburn's alternative energy initiative, which promotes the development and use of renewable energy from natural resources.

Ralph H. Zee working at his computerZee earned two master's degrees and a doctoral degree in materials science from the University of Wisconsin. He came to Auburn in 1986 as an assistant professor in mechanical engineering and has steadily risen through the academic ranks.

Zee is filling the position held by Michael Moriarty, who is returning to the faculty in the College of Veterinary Medicine where he is a professor of physiology and pharmacology.

"I appreciate Dr. Moriarty's service to Auburn in the research office these past 12 years," said Richardson. "Students in the College of Veterinary Medicine will gain from his background and experience."