Leorey Saligan has been appointed as the inaugural vice dean of research at the Rutgers School of Nursing, following a distinguished tenure as a senior investigator at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). His new role commenced on February 1, 2024, and he will focus on enhancing the School’s research initiatives.
With over 30 years of experience in nursing, Saligan has made significant contributions to nursing science and healthcare through innovative clinical trials and translational research at the National Institute of Nursing Research. His research, funded by the NIH, targets the nature and causes of fatigue linked to cancer and its treatments.
In his position, Saligan will outline and implement research priorities for the School of Nursing. He will also work to foster externally funded, faculty-led research programs, particularly those emphasizing NIH or equivalent funding. Furthermore, he aims to mentor faculty focused on research and assist in recruiting additional research-oriented faculty.
Dean and Professor Angela Starkweather expressed enthusiasm about Saligan’s appointment, stating, “This appointment celebrates the strength and momentum of research at Rutgers School of Nursing. Leo’s globally recognized scholarship and innovative leadership will amplify our research enterprise and expand the reach and impact of our faculty’s work in improving health across communities.”
Saligan has been a part of the NIH since 2006, where he has been examining persistent cancer-related fatigue along with associated symptoms such as cognitive impairment, pain, and sleep disturbances. His ultimate goal is to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients, survivors, and their families.
His extensive network of scientists and experts, both at the NIH and various universities across the globe, will be invaluable in connecting Rutgers faculty with other researchers. “This network of expertise will help Rutgers School of Nursing faculty build partnerships and infrastructures that promote translational research within our school,” Saligan remarked.
Mentorship is a central tenet of Saligan’s work. He has developed a consortium of early-career and mid-career researchers at the NIH focused on standardized research outcomes and common databases to facilitate collaboration in publishing papers and securing grants. He plans to adopt a similar framework at the School of Nursing.
Saligan was drawn to Rutgers due to its diversity and community engagement. Reflecting on his experience, he said, “When I joined Rutgers, I was amazed and inspired by the welcoming atmosphere across the community, which helps make connections easier.”
His accolades include being a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, the 2024 Outstanding Mentor Award from the National Institute of Nursing Research, and the 2024 Outstanding Service Medal from the Office of the Surgeon General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Saligan holds a master of science in family nursing and a PhD in nursing from Hampton University in Virginia. He earned his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Liceo de Cagayan University in the Philippines and a bachelor’s degree in medical technology from Silliman University.
As the Rutgers School of Nursing embarks on this new chapter with Saligan at the helm of research, the institution anticipates significant advancements in nursing science and improved health outcomes for communities.
