University of Alabama at Birmingham President Ray Watts, M.D., who serves as chair of the Southern Research Board of Directors, will serve as interim CEO as Coleman Loper steps down from that same, temporary role.
“The Southern Research Board and I are grateful to Coleman for staying longer than planned in an interim role, extending his tenure to serve in that role to provide continuity for the SR team during a time of transition,” Watts said. “I look forward to returning to the interim CEO role to help build on SR’s positive momentum.”
Watts previously served as interim CEO for SR from 2019-2021 and has remained active in support of SR’s mission through his roles as SR board chair and as president of UAB.
Continuing to serve in their leadership capacities will be Harry Ledebur, PhD., as chief operating officer, Khalilah Brown, M.D., as chief medical officer and Alan Spear, CPA, as chief financial officer. Ricky Brito, J.D., is promoted from chief of staff to chief administrative officer.
“Dr. Watts’ leadership marks a key moment as we focus on expanding Southern Research’s capabilities and amplifying our impact,” Ledebur said. “His leadership brings a unique opportunity to build on our momentum, expand our scientific impact, and advance our mission in service to the region and beyond.”
“SR is well positioned for continued success, and I look forward to working closely with the talented leadership group in supporting the broader team’s impressive contributions to science and the community,” Watts said.
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About Southern Research: Founded in Birmingham in 1941, Southern Research is a non-profit scientific research organization that employs 250 scientists and professional staff. In its 80-year legacy of moving science, the organization has helped shape modern cancer treatment practices, including developing seven FDA-approved cancer drugs and testing more than half of active chemotherapies in the United States. The organization is the highest NIH-funded non-academic research center in Alabama and has a $300 million annual economic impact. Visit southernresearch.org for more information.
