Meet the New Dean of Science at Harvard: Neuroscientist Jeff W. Lichtman Takes Over from Christopher W. Stubbs

On Tuesday afternoon, FAS Dean Hopi E. Hoekstra announced the appointment of biology professor Jeff W. Lichtman as the next dean of Science for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Lichtman, who is well-known for teaching the introductory course Neuroscience 80, will officially assume his new role on July 1.

Lichtman, who currently holds the FAS’ highest faculty appointment as an Arts and Sciences professor, will be succeeding 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.

As a leading figure in Harvard’s Molecular and Cell Biology department, Lichtman serves on various committees, including the curriculum committee and the Mind, Brain, and Behavior program committee. He has been instrumental in advancing neuroscience pedagogy at Harvard through his involvement in the MBB program, which promotes interdisciplinary collaboration.

Lichtman’s research primarily focuses on mapping the brain’s pathways, known as a “connectome.” He has developed innovative methods for visualizing neural connections in the brain. 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.

In recent weeks, Hoekstra has had a busy schedule leading up to Lichtman’s appointment as she also announced the next Arts and Humanities dean.

As a whole this appointment marks a new chapter for Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences with Lichtman bringing his expertise in neuroscience research and pedagogy into his new role as dean of science.