Amitabh Varshney Named Dean of the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences

Computer scientist Amitabh Varshney has been named dean of the University of Maryland’s College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences (CMNS), effective March 1, 2018.

Varshney is a professor of computer science at UMD and director of the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (UMIACS). He recently completed a one-year term as the university’s interim vice president for research.

In his new role, Varshney will lead the university’s largest college, which educates more than 9,000 students each year in its undergraduate and graduate programs. He will also provide strategic leadership to expand the magnitude and impact of the college’s education and research programs, which have a combined annual budget of $250 million.

“I am deeply honored to be chosen to lead this college and bring its excellence in research and academics to new levels of visibility and recognition,” Varshney said. “I look forward to championing the efforts of our talented faculty, staff and students who are advancing new frontiers of scientific knowledge every day.”

Varshney’s appointment comes after a six-month national search.

“[Dr. Varshney] has a wealth of knowledge in research and interdisciplinary work,” said Mary Ann Rankin, UMD’s senior vice president and provost. “His clear vision for the college and natural leadership style will allow CMNS to continue to be recognized nationally and globally.”

Go here to read the full CMNS news release.