Santa Ono Trades University Presidencyfor Research Leadership Roleat Hudson Institute

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  Published in Science and Technology on Tuesday, August 19th 2025 at 15:26 GMT by Tim Hastings

Former University of Michigan President Samuel “Santa” Ono has embarked on a new chapter in his career, accepting the position of Chief Science Officer at the Hudson Institute, a non-profit research organization based in Indianapolis, Indiana. This move marks a significant shift from leading one of the nation’s flagship public universities to spearheading scientific endeavors within a more focused and independent research environment.

Ono's departure from U-M was announced earlier this year, following a period of increasing scrutiny regarding his leadership style and compensation package. While he enjoyed considerable popularity among students and faculty for his accessibility and advocacy for mental health initiatives, concerns arose over spending on travel and renovations to his official residence. The University’s Board of Regents ultimately accepted his resignation, effective July 31st, 2024.

The Hudson Institute, founded in 1962, is known for its conservative-leaning policy research across a range of topics including economics, foreign policy, and healthcare. While Ono's previous role was firmly rooted in the public university system, his new position at the Hudson Institute presents an opportunity to influence scientific direction within a different institutional framework. The organization’s website highlights its commitment to “evidence-based solutions” and fostering innovation through research.

In a statement released by the Hudson Institute, Ono expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating he is "excited to join such a distinguished institution dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing critical challenges facing our society." He emphasized his desire to foster collaboration between researchers and policymakers, aiming to translate scientific discoveries into tangible solutions. "I believe that science has an essential role to play in shaping a better future," Ono said, “and I’m eager to contribute to the Hudson Institute's mission of promoting innovation and informed decision-making.”

The transition for Ono is particularly noteworthy given his background as a neuroscientist. He holds a PhD in neuroscience from McGill University and has maintained an active research profile throughout his career, even while holding administrative positions at institutions like Emory University and the University of British Columbia before arriving at U-M in 2020. His expertise in brain function and mental health is expected to be a valuable asset to the Hudson Institute’s ongoing research efforts.

The Hudson Institute's focus on policy implications suggests that Ono will likely play a role in translating scientific findings into actionable recommendations for policymakers, potentially influencing debates surrounding issues like healthcare reform, technological innovation, and national security. This contrasts with his previous role at U-M, where he primarily focused on the internal operations of the university and its academic programs.

While Ono’s time at U-M was marked by both successes and controversies, his departure has opened a space for Dr. Laura Sue Henneman, former provost at Indiana University Bloomington, to serve as interim president while a search for a permanent replacement is underway. The university's regents have initiated a nationwide search process, aiming to identify a leader who can navigate the complexities of higher education and address the challenges facing public universities in the 21st century.

The move also raises questions about the evolving role of university leadership and the increasing pressure on presidents to balance academic excellence with financial sustainability and political considerations. Ono's decision to transition into a research-focused position highlights a potential pathway for leaders seeking to leverage their expertise and influence beyond the traditional confines of higher education administration. His presence at the Hudson Institute promises to bring a unique perspective – one shaped by years of experience in both academia and leadership – to the organization’s ongoing efforts to advance scientific understanding and inform public policy.