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Advancing the Visibility
of Utah Research and Innovation

The Communications & Outreach Team within the Office of the Vice President for Research (VPR) supports the university’s research mission by amplifying discoveries, programs, and partnerships across the institution.

We collaborate with VPR units, research centers, and communications partners campus-wide to ensure that the impact of U research is better understood, more clearly felt, and widely requested.

Media Relations

Behind every research milestone at the University of Utah is an investment; in people, ideas, and the infrastructure that makes discovery possible. Research funding is more than a number; it’s a commitment to future breakthroughs, workforce development, commercialization and societal impact.

Whether it supports a lab exploring the origins of the universe, a team building new medical devices, or a historian preserving cultural heritage, each award contributes to a shared mission: advancing knowledge that improves lives.

Media Contact

Amanda Ashley – Director of Research & Innovation Communications
📧 amanda.ashley@utah.edu | 📞 801-591-7792

Support for media includes:

  • Coordinating interviews with subject-matter experts
  • Providing background materials and press assets
  • Sharing story leads and research breakthroughs
  • Facilitating coverage of major research and innovation events

What We Do

Research only makes an impact when it’s seen, heard, and understood. The Communications & Outreach team elevates the University of Utah’s research enterprise through strategic storytelling, creative design, and consistent brand alignment—showcasing how Utah ideas move the world forward.

Our core services include

Strategic communications planning and messaging for VPR priorities

Event branding, promotion, and on-site coverage

Digital advertising and social campaigns

Branded assets and design templates

Web and newsletter content strategy

Photography, video coordination, and storytelling support

Request Communications Support

Digital Ad Request    Marketing Support Request 

Story Submission /
Share Your Research

Every discovery tells a story — and we want to help tell yours.

Faculty and research staff can submit story ideas, recent awards, publications, or partnerships for consideration in university news, newsletters, and digital channels.

Resources & Templates

Consistent storytelling strengthens the University’s research brand. Explore resources and templates designed to help VPR units and partners share research stories effectively and in alignment with institutional standards.

  • Branded PowerPoint and event slide templates
  • Research fact sheets and one-pager templates
  • Social and digital
  • Photo and video usage guidelines

Stay Connected

Stay up to date on the people and ideas driving research and innovation at the U.

Bi-weekly research newsletter with funding, events, and stories

Updates from Utah Venture Hub and the TLO

Training and professional development opportunities

Funding updates and research resources

Connect with the Team

For communications requests, digital campaigns, or event support, reach out to the team members below.
Each focuses on a distinct area within Research & Innovation Communications.

Amanda Ashley

Director, Research & Innovation Communications
Strategic oversight, brand alignment, and research storytelling.
📧 amanda.ashley@utah.edu
📞 801-591-7792

Chase Austin

Digital Marketing & Content Strategy
Digital campaigns, social media, analytics, and creative coordination.
📧 chase.austin@utah.edu

Xoel Cardenas

Senior Communications Specialist
Writing, research features, and newsletter content.
📧 xoel.cardenas@utah.edu
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Caralynn Orbell

Strategic Partnerships & Events
Event strategy, logistics, partner engagement, and event communications.
📧 caralynn.orbell@utah.edu

General Inquiries

vproffice@utah.edu | 801-581-7236