UNMC has begun a national search for a permanent chairperson of the department of genetics, cell biology and anatomy. William Berndt, Ph.D., interim chairman of the department of pharmacology, will lead the 11-member search committee.
James Turpen, Ph.D., professor of cell biology and anatomy, has been interim chairman of the department, succeeding Thomas Rosenquist, Ph.D., who became vice chancellor for research in February 2002.
“The importance of the position cannot be overstated,” Dr. Berndt said. “Genetics is and will continue to be at the forefront of modern medicine and biomedical science. We must have a strong genetics program, while not allowing the other activities in that department to suffer. The work of the faculty in the Center for Human Molecular Genetics shows us just how important the discipline is, and now it must be more formally a part of the College of Medicine teaching and research activities.”
The department of genetics, cell biology and anatomy has 20 faculty members and three emeritus faculty members. More than 200 students in medical, allied health and graduate programs study in the department annually.
The search committee consists of:
- Robert Binhammer, Ph.D., professor, genetics, cell biology and anatomy;
- Wing “John” Chan, M.D., professor, pathology and microbiology;
- Pi-Wan Cheng, Ph.D., professor, biochemistry and molecular biology;
- John Gollan, M.D., Ph.D., professor and chair, internal medicine;
- Michael Hollingsworth, Ph.D., professor, Eppley Institute;
- Julia Houfek, Ph.D., associate professor, College of Nursing;
- Wayne Ryan, Ph.D., Streck Laboratories, emeritus professor, ob/gyn;
- Warren Sanger, Ph.D., professor of pediatrics, Munroe-Meyer Institute;
- Margaret Wheelock, Ph.D., professor, College of Dentistry, Lied Transplant Center; and
- Claudia Kappen, Ph.D., associate professor, Munroe-Meyer Institute.
Advertisements for the chair position will appear in “Science,” “Nature” and “Nature Genetics” within the next month, with reviews of applications and nominations beginning shortly thereafter. The ads will appear for at least one month before any formal action will be taken. The UNMC community is encouraged to suggest appropriate candidates.
In general, Dr. Berndt said, the committee is searching for research-oriented candidates with great management skills, who also are committed to a strong teaching program.
Applications and nominations should be sent to Judy Houfek in the College of Medicine Dean’s Office.