Dr. Allen joins Trent from Memorial University, where she served as acting vice-president of Research and, previously, as acting associate vice-president of Research. Throughout her tenure, she worked with senior leaders to advance Memorial’s strategic research objectives and strengthen its international profile.
“Dr. Allen will be an outstanding addition to Trent University,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Her track record as a senior research leader with demonstrated skills in facilitating collaboration across disciplines, and her appreciation for Trent’s range of engagement and productivity will elevate our reputation as a research-intensive university that tackles complex issues from multiple vantage points. She is the right leader to champion Trent’s research and researchers, advancing Trent’s focus on healthy and sustainable environments and communities.”
Dr. Allen’s research explores ancient architecture, medical practices and the influence of Greek and Roman ideas on the modern world. She is widely known for her work on the interplay between health, society and place in the ancient world. Her academic scholarship includes numerous publications, international conference presentations, major editorial roles and extensive archaeological field experience across the Mediterranean.
In addition to her academic contributions, Dr. Allen has provided national leadership through roles such as chair of ACENET’s Board of Directors, executive roles with the Ocean Frontier Institute and the Health Research Ethics Authority, as well as being Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) leader for Memorial and other organizations spanning research and innovation across the arts and sciences.
“I am honoured to join Trent at this exciting moment as the University focuses on further advancing its research profile,” said Dr. Allen. “Trent has an extraordinary reputation for excellence across disciplines, and a strong focus on interdisciplinary research that resonates deeply with my own values. I look forward to meeting and working with the entire community. Students, faculty, staff and partners at Trent are engaged in excellent research and I can’t wait to share even more of that with Canada and the world.”
She takes over the role from Dr. Holger Hintelmann, who has held the position in an interim capacity since 2024.
