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The New College of Science Vision
As the new Dean, Dr. Somerville has prioritized three foci: teaching, research, and facilities. In his own words, here is Dr. Somerville’s vision for the College of Science: “In the area of research, we have dramatically increased productivity and external funding in the fields of nanotechnology and biomolecular sciences over the last ten years. We will continue to grow in these areas, and will also build productivity and funding in environmental sciences. I am particularly interested in developing opportunities in interdisciplinary large river studies because of the location of Marshall University near the Ohio, Kanawha, and Big Sandy Rivers. In the area of teaching we have the daunting challenge of growing enrollments while increasing research activity and holding staffing at or near current levels. We will tackle that challenge by efficient management of faculty time, and increasing our efforts in both recruiting and retention. Our infrastructure – specifically our inventory of research equipment – is very good. We will continue to develop laboratory capabilities as part of our research mission. But the quality of our facilities must go beyond research functionality. I am dedicated to renovating our buildings and creating comfortable and welcoming spaces in the College of Science that will make our students feel at home here, and will reflect the quality of our coursework and research in our physical surroundings. We will also build learning opportunities into our surroundings in a way that will engage students outside the classroom.” MU-ADVANCE welcomes the new leadership in the College of Science. It is our belief that Dr. Somerville’s history within the College will allow him to build on existing relationships to create a team of scholars that will not only enhance their careers and the College itself, but will also produce the next generation of scientists who will contribute to the greater good of society.
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