The College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Cincinnati is investing in a bold new vision for research, teaching and creative activity through Discovery Amplified.
This initiative was launched through the office of A&S Dean James Mack in 2024 and is expanding its role as a central hub for scholarly activity and research support. Designed to serve faculty, students and staff, the initiative aims to strengthen research productivity, foster collaboration and enhance teaching innovation.
Discovery Amplified was created to help scholars define and pursue academic goals while increasing the reach and impact of A&S research and training programs locally and globally. The unit provides tailored guidance, connects collaborators, and supports strategic partnerships that promote innovation across disciplines.
The initiative has also launched several new programs. Its inaugural Faculty Fellows program provided four mid-career faculty members with protected time to advance projects that support both individual research goals and broader partnerships at community, university, industry, and international levels.
Discovery Amplified was also selected to host a Beckman Scholars Program supporting undergraduate research in chemistry, biology, and biomedical sciences, and is co-hosting the Undergraduate Scholarly Showcase to give students opportunities to present research, network, and participate in professional development workshops.
Beyond program development, Discovery Amplified offers individualized coaching for faculty and students at any stage of scholarly work, operational support such as database and survey development, and serves as a liaison to key university resources, including innovation, entrepreneurship, research, health sciences, and government relations offices.
Looking ahead, the program is expanding into the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL), partnering with existing campus resources to strengthen teaching innovation without duplicating services. Pilot services include research consultations on teaching practices, study design support, assistance with implementation and analysis, IRB guidance, publication support, peer observation and feedback, accessibility guidance, and integration of technology into teaching.
Discovery Amplified leadership includes director Maggie Powers-Fletcher, program manager; Rhea Castrucci, scholarship of teaching & learning manager; Dean Whitfield, scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL) manager; and Clementine Adeyemi, scientific and liberal arts affairs liaison.
The initiative reports to the Senior Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Academic Affairs and collaborates closely with divisional deans, unit leaders, faculty, and university partners.
Officials say the initiative will continue evolving in response to community needs. Faculty and staff are encouraged to visit the Discovery Amplified SharePoint page for updates, while a Canvas site is being developed to improve student-facing communication.
By strengthening research support, fostering partnerships, and enhancing teaching practices, Discovery Amplified aims to help A&S scholars achieve their academic and professional goals.
Featured image at top: UC's College of Arts and Sciences has developed several new scholarly and research initiatives through its Discovery Amplified program. Photo: Qimono for Pixabay.
