Kimberly Pratt named director of OHIO’s Office of Research Development

Ohio University’s Division of Research and Creative Activity is pleased to announce that Kimberly (Baker) Pratt has been promoted to director of the Office of Research Development.

In this role, Pratt will report to Dr. Kim Littlefield, associate vice president of research administration, and collaborate across the University to advance research, creative activity and community impact.

“The Division of Research and Creative Activity is thrilled to welcome Kimberly to this leadership role. Kimberly’s expertise and experience are tuned ideally for growing the research development services that will contribute to a thriving research enterprise at OHIO,” Littlefield said.

A proud Ohio University alumna, Pratt earned her master’s degree from the College of Arts and Sciences and her bachelor’s degree from the Honors Tutorial College in 2003. She is an active Certified Research Administrator (CRA) and joined the Office of Sponsored Programs in 2023, leading a dedicated team providing pre-award proposal support. Pratt also represents the Office of Research and Creative Activity on the Administrative Senate and University Research Council.

Pratt brings 15 years of expertise in proposal development and pre-award management to her new role. She previously held positions in the Office of Research Development at The Ohio State University, the Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and the Center for Research and Evaluation at COSI. 

Nationally, Pratt is recognized for her leadership in research development and administration. She currently serves on several committees with the Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI) and is a sought-after speaker, author and feature editor for SRAI’s Catalyst magazine. Pratt is also a past president of both the Ohio Chapter and the Midwest Section of SRAI. Her contributions have earned numerous honors, including the SRAI Excellence Award and Future of the Field Award. In 2023, she was named Distinguished Faculty of the Society for her outstanding service in teaching, mentorship and strategic guidance.

“It is an honor to step into this role tasked with advancing the University’s reputation for research, faculty scholarship and creative activity,” said Pratt. “I look forward to continuing our work by enhancing our research development infrastructure and empowering researchers and administrators alike.”

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Pratt volunteers with the Fairfield County 4-H program and serves on its Advisory Committee. She resides in Lithopolis with her spouse, teenage son and a menagerie of pets and livestock.