Madison Reporter

Elizabeth Hill has been appointed as the new director of federal relations for research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Hill brings over 15 years of experience in federal service, with a background in science policy, research funding, and public engagement.

In her new role, Hill will advocate for UW–Madison’s federally funded research efforts. She will work from Washington, D.C., collaborating with the director of congressional affairs to represent the university in discussions with Congress members, federal agencies, and national organizations. Her responsibilities include guiding efforts to secure research funding, monitoring legislation, working closely with the university’s congressional delegation, connecting faculty with national policy conversations, and aligning federal outreach with campus research priorities.

“Elizabeth joins us at a time when the stakes for research funding have never been higher,” said Craig Thompson, Vice Chancellor for University Relations. “I’m confident she will be a powerful advocate for UW–Madison’s work in Washington.”

Hill previously served as Departmental Research Coordinator for honeybees and other pollinators in the Office of the Chief Scientist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). She also worked as an economist at USDA’s Office of Pest Management Policy and at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and was formerly an Extension Agent at the University of Maryland. She holds a Master of Science in Environmental Economics from the University of Georgia and two Bachelor of Science degrees from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro.

“It’s a privilege to advocate for the research and discovery happening every day at UW–Madison,” Hill said. “This work touches lives far beyond campus. From advancing health to strengthening communities, I’m proud to help make sure those stories are heard in Washington.”

Hill takes on this position during a period when federal support for academic research is changing. Her experience is expected to strengthen UW–Madison’s ability to engage policymakers and support continued investment in research that drives innovation and supports economic development.

More information about UW–Madison's research activities can be found at news.wisc.edu/research-impact.