Melaine D’Cruze, Director of the Research Office (Pakistan) at Aga Khan University (AKU), has earned global recognition for her outstanding contributions to research administration, honoured by the Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI) as part of its distinguished Future of the Field programme. D’Cruze was selected from over 100 international nominees, marking her as one of the foremost leaders shaping the future of research management worldwide.
SRAI, the largest network of research management professionals with members spanning over 40 countries, empowers research leaders through specialized education and professional development. Its Future of the Field programme highlights individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, vision and innovative approaches, impacting institutions and inspiring their peers across the globe. “The individuals recognised through Future of the Field are some of the best and brightest in our profession,” noted Gloria W. Greene, President of SRAI.
D'Cruze’s journey in research administration spans over 20 years, beginning at AKU’s Institute for Educational Development, where she honed her expertise in strategic planning and leadership. Since becoming Director of the Research Office in June 2023, she has prioritized strengthening research governance at AKU, with the development of a five-year research strategy as a cornerstone of her recent work. Reflecting on her journey, D’Cruze shared, “My journey into research administration has been transformative. At AKU, I’m proud to help shape the strategic initiatives that advance impactful research and meaningful change.”
Dr Salim Varani, Vice Provost of Research at AKU, praised Melaine D’Cruze’s achievement saying, “Participation in communities like SRAI is essential for sharing knowledge and bringing best practices in research administration to AKU. By connecting with industry peers, we will strengthen our own research engine, ensuring we’re equipped to drive impactful change where it is needed the most”.
This year’s honourees include notable leaders from esteemed institutions such as the University of Michigan, University of Ottawa, Illinois State University, and Khalifa University, among others. Melaine D’Cruze and her fellow honourees were celebrated at SRAI’s Annual Meeting in Chicago this October.
