Michael Purcell has been named as the executive director of the Office of Research Services at the University of Oklahoma-Norman campus and an associate vice president for research and partnerships. Michael is responsible for ensuring the continuity of daily operations of all pre-award functions related to the administration of sponsored research and creative activities for the Norman campus and related programs on the Tulsa campus.
“Following a rigorous national search, we’re thrilled to announce that Michael Purcell has accepted this position to provide strategic direction to the Office of Research Services,” said Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, vice president for research and partnerships. “Michael has shown tremendous skill and vision for ORS during his interim appointment and we look forward to his leadership as we continue to grow support for these essential research services.”
“I am excited to take on this new opportunity within the Office of Research Services,” said Purcell. “Our office will be dedicated to working with faculty and meeting the goals in the Lead On, University Strategic Plan.”
Michael previously served as a staff attorney for the Board of Regents through the University of Oklahoma’s Office of Legal Counsel. During that time, he advised the Office of Research Services with contract review and negotiation, legal analysis and general advice. His accomplishments while working with ORS as a staff attorney include assisting during several phases of the NASA Geocarb project and negotiating several master research agreements with Fortune 500 companies. Research awards grew from $97 million in FY2017 to $255 million in FY2020 in part because of his legal review of agreements applicable to such projects.
Before serving at the university, Michael was in private practice at Chubbuck, Duncan, and Robey, specializing in litigation. Michael received his Juris Doctorate in 2011 and a B.B.A. with distinction in finance in 2008, both from OU.