On Tuesday afternoon, FAS Dean Hopi E. Hoekstra announced that Biology professor Jeff W. Lichtman has been appointed as the next dean of Science for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Lichtman will succeed current Sciences Dean Christopher W. Stubbs, who is expected to step down at the end of the academic year. Despite this, Stubbs will remain involved in the FAS administration and will continue to serve as Hoekstra’s special adviser on artificial intelligence.
Lichtman is well-known for teaching the introductory course Neuroscience 80 and currently holds the FAS’ highest faculty appointment as an Arts and Sciences professor. He has been instrumental in advancing neuroscience pedagogy at Harvard through his involvement in the Molecular and Cell Biology department, where he serves on various committees, including the curriculum committee and the Mind, Brain, and Behavior program committee.
As a leading figure in Harvard’s MBB program, Lichtman has developed innovative methods for visualizing neural connections in the brain. His research primarily focuses on mapping the brain’s pathways, known as a “connectome.” Hoekstra praised Lichtman for his visionary approach to both research and education, noting his ability to bring people together to advance knowledge.
Due to his new administrative responsibilities, Lichtman will no longer be teaching Neuro 80 in the fall. The current plan is for a different instructor to teach the course moving forward. This appointment reflects Hoekstra’s commitment to fostering collaboration and excellence within the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.
Lichtman will officially assume his new role on July 1st.