Melaine D'Cruze, Director, Research Office (Pakistan) at Aga Khan University (AKU), has received the prestigious Emerging Excellence in Research Administration Award from the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA). Presented at NCURA's 67th Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, the award honours early-career professionals who have shown exceptional promise, innovation, and leadership in research administration.
Founded in 1959, NCURA is a leading non-profit society advancing research administration through education, knowledge exchange, and global collaboration. With over 9,000 members from 1,100 institutions in 40 countries, NCURA fosters an international community committed to strengthening the research enterprise. Its Emerging Excellence Award highlights rising leaders making a significant impact early in their careers.
Melaine began her career 20 years ago and has worked within various units at AKU's Institute for Educational Development. Since her appointment as Director of the Research Office in June 2023, she has led key initiatives to strengthen research governance, including the development of AKU's first-ever five-year Research Strategic Plan. “Attending the NCURA Annual Meeting was a valuable opportunity to expand my knowledge, connect with peers, and bring back best practices to enhance our work at AKU," she shared. “To also receive this award is a deeply meaningful recognition."
She also received the NCURA Region VIII AM67 Travel Award, supporting her participation at the meeting. The grant helps new research administrators gain international exposure and build global networks.
Dr Salim Virani, Vice Provost of Research at AKU, commented: “Engagement with professional societies like NCURA is vital for bringing global best practices to AKU. It enhances our research administration capabilities, promotes international collaboration, and aligns us with global standards—strengthening our ability to deliver research that addresses the world's most pressing challenges."
In her role, Melaine has led improvements in the grant management lifecycle, conceptualisation and implementation of intramural awards, capacity development of research administrators, policy and process development, compliance, and governance.
Her contributions extend beyond AKU, including international conference presentations, collaborative projects, and co-authored publications. Looking ahead, she is focused on continuous process improvements in research administration and enhancing compliance infrastructure.
This marks the second consecutive year of global recognition for Melaine. In 2024, she was honoured by the Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI) as part of its Future of the Field programme, joining peers from leading global institutions.
