Dr. John F. Barthell, Chief Research Officer at the University of Central Oklahoma, has been elected to serve on the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) Board of Directors as an officer in the Presidential Line. Barthell will serve a three-year term with a stepped rotation of: President-Elect (2026-2027), President (2027-2028), and Immediate Past President (2028-2029).
“It is an honor to be in this role,” says Barthell. “I appreciate this opportunity to give back to an organization that has meant so much to so many who are committed to undergraduate research.”
John Barthell of the University of Central Oklahoma brings a strong record of leadership, strategic vision, and advocacy for undergraduate research to his new role as President of the Council on Undergraduate Research Board of Directors. Throughout his career, Barthell has championed student-centered learning and faculty mentorship while helping expand access to transformative research experiences across disciplines. His longstanding involvement with CUR, combined with his administrative leadership and commitment to collaborative partnerships, positions him to guide the organization as it continues advancing equity, innovation, and excellence in undergraduate research nationwide. Under his leadership, CUR is well positioned to strengthen institutional engagement, support emerging research leaders, and expand opportunities for students and faculty at colleges and universities of all types.
“We are thrilled to welcome John Barthell into the role of President of the CUR Board of Directors,” said Lindsay Currie, Executive Officer of the Council on Undergraduate Research. “John brings a thoughtful, collaborative leadership style and a deep commitment to expanding access to high-quality undergraduate research experiences. His longstanding dedication to student success and faculty engagement makes him exceptionally well suited to help guide CUR’s mission and future growth.”
Barthell will begin this journey on June 1, 2026. You can view all of our Board of Directors here >>
Founded in 1978, the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) focuses on providing high-quality and collaborative undergraduate research, scholarly, and creative activity. Among the many activities and networking opportunities that CUR provides, the organization also offers support for the professional growth of faculty and administrators through expert-designed institutes, conferences, and a wide-range of volunteer positions. The CUR community, made up of nearly 700 institutions and 13,000 individuals, continues to provide a platform for discussion and other resources related to mentoring, connecting, and creating relationships centered around undergraduate research. CUR’s advocacy efforts are also a large portion of its work as they strive to strengthen support for undergraduate research. Its continued growth in connections with representatives, private foundations, government agencies, and campuses world-wide provides value to its members and gives voice to undergraduate research. CUR is committed to inclusivity and diversity in all of its activities and our community.
CUR focuses on giving a voice to undergraduate research with learning through doing. It provides connections to a multitude of campuses and government agencies, all while promoting networking and professional growth to its community.
