As the second vice chancellor of research and economic development candidate, Mark Aldenderfer expressed his belief in enabling research that benefits universities and communities Monday at a forum. The ancient idea of a university is important, but society has changed and universities must adapt, said Aldenderfer, the current dean of the School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts at the University of California, Merced. Aldenderfer said those changes mean it’s important to maintain the original notion of a university, but it’s essential to recognize the obligations of a modern university to the community, economy, students and faculty. Aldenderfer studied archaeology at Pennsylvania State University and has done research in anthropology. “You need someone who can understand tribal politics,” he said, explaining that his anthropology background allows him to understand communication and deal with individuals from different disciplines. Aldenderfer stressed the importance of interdisciplinary research to “expand horizons” for all researchers. He called himself an enabler in many ways, including the areas of economic development. The community near UC Merced has a high unemployment rate, and the university’s water and solar expertise have helped the community maintain itself, he said. He was also involved in a program that helped community arts and humanities programs find funding. The ability to make tough decisions is an important quality to have for this position, he said. All areas of research shouldn’t receive equal funding, Aldenderfer said, but he would do what is necessary support research in all disciplines. “Research should be fun,” he said. “My job is to make it as much fun for you as possible.” Morris Foster, the final candidate for vice chancellor of research and economic development, will speak at the last forum at 4 p.m. on Thursday in Coates 2.
 
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