University of Kentucky Research Foundation

Research leading to new knowledge and the transfer of this new knowledge through teaching and service are two of the major responsibilities of the University of Kentucky. The University of Kentucky Research Foundation (UKRF), a not-for-profit Kentucky corporation, was established in 1945 to receive, invest, and expend funds to promote and implement scientific, education, and developmental activities at UK. UKRF serves as the university's agent in the receipt of all external grants and contracts, intellectual property income and other designated income; oversees the protection, development, and commercialization of intellectual properties; and manages special cooperative agreements.

2025-2026 UKRF Board of Directors

• Eli Capilouto, UK President, ex-officio*
• Ilhem Messaoudi, Acting Vice President for Research, ex-officio*
• Ron Geoghegan, UK Board of Trustees member, Term Expires: September 30, 2026*
• Janie Greer, UK Board of Trustees member, Term Expires: September 30, 2027
• Rebecca McCulley, UK faculty member, Term Expires: June 30, 2027
• Sharon Walsh, UK faculty member, Term Expires: June 30, 2028*
• Eugene Krentsel, public member, Term Expires: June 30, 2026
• Jack Supplee, public member, Term Expires: June 30, 2027
• Eric Monday, Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, ex-officio*
• Robert S. DiPaola, Provost, ex-officio*
  _{*Executive Committee}
   

Officers

• President, Eli Capilouto
• Vice President & Executive Director, Ilhem Messaoudi
• Secretary, Toni Smith
• Treasurer, Penny Cox