The second of four candidates for the position of Vice President for Research and Creative Activity and Dean of the Graduate College addressed concerns about setting policies, startup costs, and the relationship between graduate studies and international programs at an open forum yesterday.

Jack McIver is the senior associate vice president for research and economic development and a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of New Mexico.

McIver, explaining his philosophy, said he likes to be in the lead but thinks it is most important to work as a team to be successful.

“Everybody has to work together,” he said. “It requires teamwork to get things done.”

He emphasized interest in cooperating with faculty members, explaining that he would work with them, seek input and try to make sure they know what is happening on a regular basis.

“Faculty input is essential; (they’re) the ones who have to live with it,” he said.

The vice president for research and creative activity will be in charge of beginning the new Graduate College and monitoring and maintaining the existing graduate programs and education. Executive Vice President and Provost Kathy Krendl announced the creation of the Graduate College in September.

The position will replace that of Vice President for Research, currently held in the interim by James Rankin.

Open forums for the next two candidates will occur Feb. 11 and 19 in Baker University Center Room 240.