Chris Clemens, Jaroslav Folda Distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy, will be the next executive vice chancellor and provost, effective Feb. 1, 2022.
In his announcement, Chancellor Guskiewicz said: “Chris’ deep understanding of the links between rigorous interdisciplinary research, excellent teaching and the value of free inquiry makes him the right person to take on this role at this crucial time in Carolina’s history. He has been a devoted member of the Carolina community since 1998, when he joined the Department of Physics and Astronomy as an accomplished astrophysicist. In the decades since, he has taken on roles of increasing responsibility and shown an eagerness to work with colleagues across campus and across disciplines to strengthen Carolina’s academic mission.”
“As chair of physics and astronomy, senior associate dean for natural sciences, senior associate dean for research and innovation in the College of Arts & Sciences, and most recently as the director of Carolina’s Institute for Convergent Science and Chancellor’s Eminent Professor of Convergent Science, Chris has demonstrated a commitment to the kind of interdisciplinary work emphasized in the University’s strategic plan Carolina Next: Innovations for Public Good. As we all work to secure Carolina’s role as a leading global public research university, that spirit of creative collaboration will be especially important.”
Congratulations, Chris, from all of us in the Physics and Astronomy Department!