Valerie Oosterveld, a law professor at Western University in Ontario, Canada, has been appointed as the associate vice president for research, effective July 1. With over 21 years of experience at Western, Oosterveld is recognized for her contributions to international criminal law, particularly concerning gender-related crimes, and her work in the emerging field of space law. In her new role, she will provide strategic leadership to enhance Western's research mission, particularly in securing funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and fostering community-engaged research. Oosterveld aims to leverage Western's strengths in scholarly excellence and collaboration to generate new research opportunities. She will also focus on attracting international funding and creating pathways for student researchers. Penny Pexman, vice president (research), expressed enthusiasm for Oosterveld's appointment, highlighting her unique perspectives that will strengthen research in various disciplines. Oosterveld succeeds Jacquelyn Burkell, who served as AVP since 2019 and was acknowledged for her advocacy in the social sciences and humanities.