Discover the New Interim Kirkland House Faculty Deans: Climate Scientist Peter Huybers and Health Administrator Downing Lu | Harvard Crimson News

Peter J. Huybers and Downing Lu are set to take on new roles as interim faculty deans for Kirkland House at Harvard. This change follows the departure of David J. Deming and Janine M. Santimauro, who served since 2020. Deming will become the new dean of the College, making this transition a significant moment in Harvard’s leadership.

Huybers, a professor since 2007 and chair of the Earth and Planetary Sciences department since 2023, brings a wealth of experience. He studied physics at West Point and earned his Ph.D. from MIT in climate physics and chemistry. His research delves into climate change, particularly its impact on water resources and agriculture.

Lu, currently a senior fellow at the Harvard Advanced Leadership Initiative, has a strong background in medicine. She graduated from West Point, earned her M.D. from Tulane University, and holds a public health degree from Harvard. As a pediatrician and U.S. Army colonel, Lu has been involved in various military health systems, focusing on global health issues.

Their appointment reflects Harvard’s commitment to fostering a just and sustainable world. Both Huybers and Lu share a passion for making meaningful contributions in their fields.

The search for permanent faculty deans will start this fall. It’s a pivotal time for Kirkland House, as it adapts to new leadership and aims to build on its strong foundation.

For more on leadership in academia, check out the Harvard Advanced Leadership Initiative.

Source link