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McGuigan named as inaugural Associate Dean of Libraries for Research at UW–Madison

December 1, 2025

The UW–Madison Libraries are proud to announce that Niamh McGuigan has begun her role as the first Associate Dean of Libraries for Research, a role she will start December 1, 2025.

McGuigan comes to UW–Madison Libraries with a strong track record of effective leadership. Most recently, she served for four years as the Director of the Center for Library Exploration and Research at Brown University, where she led several research and programmatic initiatives focused on building academic community and expanding research and data services across Brown’s campus and into the local community. There, she also coordinated library efforts for AI in teaching, learning, and engagement, and contributed to campus committees related to AI strategy.

Prior to her time at Brown, McGuigan held positions at Loyola University Chicago Libraries, serving as Head of Research and Learning and as a Reference Librarian and Subject Specialist.

In her role as Associate Dean of Libraries for Research at UW–Madison, McGuigan is responsible for promoting and advancing research support and collaboration across all campus libraries, including comprehensive coordination of library research services and activities. Her position provides leadership in shaping research service aspects of the Libraries’ strategic plans and directions as well as leading in program development and assessment.

“I’m honored to join the UW–Madison Libraries at a moment when libraries and access to information matter more than ever,” says McGuigan. “I look forward to working with students, faculty, and staff across campus to advance the research mission of UW–Madison, affirming the university’s commitment to discover, examine, preserve, and transmit knowledge.”

McGuigan is one of two new associate deans to join UW-Madison Libraries in late fall 2025. The Libraries are pleased to welcome McGuigan’s expertise and vision as the team grows under the leadership of Dean and Vice Provost of Libraries Erla Heyns.