ndrew “Zed” Mason knew he’d leave behind the things he’s most passionate about when he accepted his new position at Cal State Long Beach this semester - and that’s perfectly okay with him.
Mason, the associate dean for research of graduate studies for the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, was appointed as interim associate vice president (AVP) for research and sponsored programs this semester, a position in which he won’t be able to conduct research or teach.
“I left my heart in the classroom and my soul in the lab,” Mason said.
Mason will provide leadership and vision for the support and expansion of research, scholarship, creative activities and grant and contract activities on campus, according to CSULB spokesman Rick Gloady.
Mason came to CSULB as a research associate professor in 1985 with the Molecular Ecology Institute, and in 1989 he joined the tenure-track faculty in the biology department, where he specialized in the areas of aquatic toxicology, cell biology, atomic spectroscopy and analytical electron microscopy.
Since then, he has published more than 40 articles in peer-reviewed journals, as well as three book chapters, and has secured approximately $5 million of funding to support university research, infrastructure and curriculum development. During his tenure, he also provided research opportunities for more than 80 students in his laboratory, many of whom have moved on to doctorate programs.
Managing the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, Mason will oversee all university policies and procedures relating to research. Additionally, he will promote research integrity and monitor research ethics and conflict of interest issues, according to Gloady.
Mason said he is excited about overcoming potential budgetary challenges in his new position.
“I see real challenges, but also real opportunities,” Mason said. “I saw an opportunity to place myself in a position of advocacy for something that I have a great passion for, and to give back to the institution that has invested in me.”
Mason replaces T.C. Yih, who accepted a similar position at Florida Gulf Coast University. A replacement for Mason’s position as dean has not yet been determined, but nominations are being sought from within the college, Mason said.
“My hope is that by promoting faculty research and scholarship involving students, I can bring opportunities to faculty for continued personal growth as well as providing challenging, empowering and transformative experiences for students that will take them on a path of exploration, self-discovery and lifelong learning.”
Though he’s moving on to administrative affairs for now, Mason certainly didn’t rule out a return to the classroom.
“I don’t think students truly understand how much we love them and how much we’d do for them,” Mason said. “When you see them grow, there’s nothing more gratifying … I’ll probably want to return to teaching at some point.”