Marian University is proud to announce the reappointment of Joyce Horton, PhD, to a second three-year term as the university’s Research Integrity Officer (RIO). A respected educator and mentor in the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Horton has served in this role since 2022, supporting a culture of integrity, transparency, and ethical scholarship across Marian’s growing research portfolio.
The RIO position, required under federal regulations, plays a vital role in upholding the principles that guide all research activity at Marian. Dr. Horton provides institutional leadership in maintaining responsible research practices, overseeing policies related to research integrity and financial conflict of interest in research, and ensuring that the university’s research environment reflects both best practices and Marian’s Franciscan Sponsorship Values.
“Dr. Horton brings a remarkable steadiness to this role,” said Dr. Jonathan Lowery, Assistant Provost for Research & Scholarship. “She approaches her work with clarity, care, and conviction and she leads in a way that is deeply aligned with our mission. Her continued leadership helps ensure that Marian’s research culture remains both ethically grounded and forward-looking.
In recent years, Dr. Horton has helped strengthen institutional processes for research oversight, while also providing confidential counsel and support to faculty, staff, and students navigating research responsibilities. She works closely with colleagues in the Office of Research Operations, Integrity & Compliance, the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research (OSPR), and the Grants Management Office.
As Marian continues to expand its research footprint, the university remains committed to nurturing an environment where intellectual curiosity is paired with deep responsibility.
According to Dr. Horton, “It’s an honor to serve in a role that reflects Marian’s deep commitment to ethical scholarship. Research is about discovery — but also responsibility. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support our faculty, staff, and students as they pursue meaningful work rooted in integrity, transparency, and care for the common good.”
To learn more about research integrity at Marian email research@marian.edu or visit the Office of Research Operations, Integrity & Compliance here.