Office for Research

Dr. Joe Benson, Interim Vice President for Research

Dr. Joe Benson was appointed Interim Vice President for Research and Vice Provost on August 1, 2007.

“Dr. Benson has the expertise and experience that we need to provide leadership for the Office of Research,” said Dr. Judy Bonner, UA executive vice president and provost.  “He has an impressive record of achievement as an outstanding teacher and scholar and he is highly regarded as an effective administrator.”

Dr. Benson earned his master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Cincinnati and his bachelor’s degree from the College of Wooster in Wooster, Ohio.  He joined the UA faculty in 1978 as an assistant professor of geology.  He served as chair of the department of geological sciences from 1990-1998, as associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences from 1998-2000 and as Senior Associate Dean of the College from 2000 through 2007.

Dr. Benson’s research record in the area of petroleum geology has led to more than 80 publications in academic journals and substantial external funding to support his research projects.  Known as an outstanding teacher, he was presented the National Alumni Association’s Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award in 1988.  He also served two terms as president of the UA Faculty Senate from 1993-1995.