Florida A&M University Announces Dr. Robert Nobles II as SVP for Health Science Enterprise
Tallahassee, Fla. – Florida A&M University (FAMU) announces the appointment of alumnus Robert E. Nobles, II, DrPH, MPH, as the new Senior Vice President for Health Sciences Enterprise and Research Innovation. He will report to Executive Vice President for Health Sciences Enterprise and Research Innovation Donald Palm, III, Ph.D.
“I am both deeply honored and genuinely excited to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Robert E. Nobles II as our new Senior Vice President for Health Science Enterprise and Research Innovation at Florida A&M University,” said Palm. “He joins us as a nationally respected research leader with an exceptional record in driving significant research growth, building world-class infrastructure, and nurturing a culture of excellence. His impressive background will be invaluable as we accelerate our pursuit of R1 distinction.”
Nobles will spearhead FAMU’s strategy to become a Carnegie R1 classified institution, which is the designation for research universities with the highest level of research activity, doctoral programs, and scholarly publications. He is especially skilled at mobilizing institutions to reach ambitious goals, while maximizing exceptional talent and collaborations to strengthen and architect new and existing programs and opportunities.
“I’m excited to be called back to the Hill as we begin this transformation process of becoming a Carnegie Classified R1 institution, with the highest level of research activity, doctoral programs, and scholarly publications,” said Nobles. “Following the visionary leadership of President Marva Johnson and Executive VP Dr. Donald Palm, and partnering closely with the exceptionally talented Provost, Dr. Allyson Watson, FAMU will be a destination for future scholars ready to make a positive impact on the world around them.”
Most recently, Nobles served as the vice president for Research Administration at Emory University where he oversaw a $1.1B research enterprise supported by more than 500 professionals. To accomplish more than 50% growth in less than 5 years, he leveraged partnerships across the university and provided strategic and operational direction for all major research administrative functions—from compliance and grant management to technology transfer. He is also the deputy director for the SECURE Center, which is a $50M NSF funded national research security initiative. Previously, Nobles held research leadership roles at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Texas A&M, University of Texas Health Science Center – Houston, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Nobles currently serves on the executive committee of the Federal Demonstration Partnership. He is the chair of the finance and audit committee for the Oak Ridge Associated Universities Board of Directors, and he serves on the Advisory Council of Public Responsibility in Medicine & Research.
Nobles received his Bachelor of Science in molecular biology and a Master of Public Health in epidemiology from Florida A&M University. He obtained his Doctor of Public Health in health policy & management, health economics, and epidemiology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.
“Throughout his career, Dr. Nobles has played a pivotal role in leading and scaling billion-dollar research enterprises while championing innovation, ensuring compliance, and promoting faculty success. We look forward to working together to boldly enhance our status as a premier institution of innovation, discovery, and impact,” said Palm.
Media Contact
Alonda Thomas
alonda.thomas@famu.edu
