Narayanan Parameswaran Named Executive Vice President for Research at RFU

NORTH CHICAGO, Ill., Aug. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Rosalind Franklin University (RFU) announces the appointment of Narayanan (Nara) Parameswaran, PhD, MS, BVSc, as its next executive vice president for research, effective Dec. 2, 2026. Dr. Parameswaran's success in translational research, faculty development and external partnerships aligns with RFU's commitment to advancing biomedical discovery and community impact.

"Nara brings a proven record of developing partnerships across institutions and health systems that connect research with healthcare, industry, philanthropy and communities," said RFU President Aron Sousa, MD. "His expertise will continue to strengthen our research enterprise, which is fundamental to RFU's mission of improving the wellness of all people."

Dr. Parameswaran joins RFU from Michigan State University. He currently serves as senior associate dean for research and professor of physiology in the College of Human Medicine, overseeing research activities spanning eight campuses and approximately $130 million in sponsored awards. His responsibilities have included faculty development, research administration, infrastructure planning, student and trainee research, and strategic research investment.

That experience gives Dr. Parameswaran direct insight into the challenges facing academic research institutions — from securing competitive funding to navigating increasingly complex research environments. He also brings a strong commitment to building collaborative teams and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

"I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to join Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science as the executive vice president for research," Dr. Parameswaran said. "I look forward to working with President Sousa, university leaders, faculty, staff and students to build on RFU's research strengths, create new opportunities for discovery and collaboration, and ensure that our research makes a meaningful difference in advancing the university's mission."

Dr. Parameswaran's own research focuses on inflammation, innate immunity and gut-bone interactions. He has authored more than 95 peer-reviewed publications and earned sustained research support from the National Institutes of Health, foundations and industry partners. His experience combines the perspective of an accomplished investigator with a keen understanding of the people, systems and partnerships essential to advancing successful research programs.

"What stood out to us was the breadth of his leadership and how closely it aligns with opportunities we see at RFU," Dr. Sousa said. "Nara has firsthand experience building successful research programs by fostering collaborations across academic, healthcare and industry environments that support translational and community-engaged research."

Those capabilities will support RFU's research enterprise, including the university's Innovation and Research Park, which brings academic and industry scientists, innovators and entrepreneurs together in a collaborative research environment. The park is also home to Helix 51, RFU's bioscience incubator for startup, early-stage and international life science companies.

Janice Urban, PhD, will continue to serve as RFU's interim executive vice president for research until Dr. Parameswaran arrives in December. Dr. Urban has been an invaluable leader as the university managed the challenges of the current science funding environment.

Dr. Parameswaran earned his BVSc in veterinary medicine from Madras Veterinary College in India, an MS in veterinary physiology and pharmacology from The Ohio State University, and a PhD in physiology from Michigan State University. He completed postdoctoral training at Michigan State University and Thomas Jefferson University.

About Rosalind Franklin University

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is committed to serving the global population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. Founded in Chicago in 1912, RFU embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA. Recognized for its research in the areas of neuroscience, brain related diseases, inherited disorders, diabetes, obesity, and gait and balance, the university includes Chicago Medical School, College of Health Professions, College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, and the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. Learn more at rosalindfranklin.edu.

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SOURCE Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science