Lois J. Geist was appointed interim vice president for research in September 2024. 

She has served as associate provost for faculty in November 2019. She earned master of science and doctor of medicine degrees from Case Western Reserve University.  Dr. Geist has been a professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Occupational Medicine at the University of Iowa since 1990 and has served as associate dean of faculty affairs and development since 2003 while maintaining an active clinical practice.

Dr. Geist is well versed in faculty-related policy and procedure, the promotion and tenure process, human resources, and faculty development. Her efforts focus on large and small group seminars, as well as individual consultation related to the growth and success of faculty. Dr. Geist has served on collegiate and university related committees, including Faculty Senate, Faculty Council and has participated in searches and reviews at the university level.  At the national level she has served on several committees for the Association of American Medical Colleges and the Group on Faculty Affairs.