By Dr. Janet Morrison
Trent University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Tana J. Allen, an internationally recognized classical archaeologist and social historian and accomplished senior academic administrator, as the University's next vice-president, Research & Innovation at Trent effective September 1, 2026.
"Dr. Allen will be an outstanding addition to Trent University," said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor.
"Her track record as a senior research leader with demonstrated skills in facilitating collaboration across disciplines, and her appreciation for Trent's range of engagement and productivity will elevate our reputation as a research-intensive university that tackles complex issues from multiple vantage points. She is the right leader to champion Trent's research and researchers, advancing Trent's focus on healthy and sustainable environments and communities."
Dr. Tana J. Allen, an internationally recognized classical archaeologist and social historian, is Trent University's next vice-president, Research & Innovation
Dr. Allen comes to Trent from Memorial University, where she most recently served as acting vice-president (research) and previously as acting associate vice-president (research). Throughout her tenure, she worked closely with senior leaders to advance Memorial's strategic research objectives and strengthen its international profile.
Dr. Allen's research explores ancient architecture, medical practices, and the influence of Greek and Roman ideas on the modern world. She is widely known for her work on the interplay between health, society, and place in the ancient world. Her academic scholarship includes numerous publications, international conference presentations, major editorial roles, and extensive archaeological field experience across the Mediterranean.
In addition to her academic contributions, Dr. Allen has provided national leadership through roles such as chair of ACENET's Board of Directors, executive roles with the Ocean Frontier Institute and the Health Research Ethics Authority, as well as being Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) leader for Memorial, and other organizations spanning research and innovation across the arts and sciences.
"I am honoured to join Trent at this exciting moment as the University focuses on further advancing its research profile," said Dr. Allen. "Trent has an extraordinary reputation for excellence across disciplines, and a strong focus on interdisciplinary research that resonates deeply with my own values."
"I look forward to meeting and working with the entire community. Students, faculty, staff and partners at Trent are engaged in excellent research and I can't wait to share even more of that with Canada and the world."
Dr. Allen holds a Bachelor of Arts from Amherst College, a Master of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin, and a Ph.D. from the University of Alberta.
She will begin her role as vice-president, Research & Innovation at Trent University on September 1, 2026, replacing Dr. Holger Hintelmann, who has held the position in an interim capacity since 2024.
