John Preston has been appointed Associate Vice-President, Research (Nuclear).
Preston, a professor of engineering physics, joined the OVPR in 2024 as Strategic Advisor to the Vice-President, Research on McMaster’s Nuclear Enterprise. He was appointed Acting Associate Vice-President, Research (Nuclear) in July 2025.
Prior to joining the OVPR, Preston completed two terms as Associate Dean of Research, Innovation and Partnerships in the Faculty of Engineering. He has played a critical role in the success and growth of the Faculty of Engineering over the last decade, leading its research initiatives through transformative innovations, change and challenges. He also helped to build its nuclear capacity and reputation, which he expanded upon during his time at the OVPR.
As Associate Vice-President, Research (Nuclear), Preston will continue to work closely with academic partners across and beyond McMaster, as well as with government and industry collaborators to grow McMaster’s nuclear education, research and commercial programs.
“As a world leader in nuclear research and education, McMaster has the expertise, infrastructure and partnerships to drive innovation across a wide range of nuclear applications, from medical isotopes and advanced materials to clean energy and nuclear safety,” says Preston.
“It’s an exciting time for the sector, and I’m looking forward to continuing to work with colleagues across the university and with external partners to maximize our impact and advance new opportunities for nuclear research, training and commercialization.”
Vice-President, Research, Gianni Parise, says Preston is exceptionally well suited to the role.
“John’s longstanding commitment to research excellence, his experience building partnerships and his deep understanding of the nuclear sector have already made a significant impact at McMaster. I look forward to working with him as we continue to grow McMaster’s nuclear enterprise and strengthen our leadership as Canada’s Nuclear University,” he says.
Preston’s five-year term begins July 1, 2026.