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The University of Houston has announced Gregory Dudley as the new dean for its College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Dudley, an experienced academic leader and chemist, will begin his tenure on August 1.
Dudley expressed enthusiasm about joining the university, stating, "The University of Houston is rapidly emerging in national prominence as a major public university. The UH mission, vision and values align closely with my own commitment to inclusive academic excellence, and NSM plays a critical and foundational role in research, teaching and promoting social mobility for UH students."
Currently serving as the Eberly Family Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at West Virginia University (WVU) and program director for the National Science Foundation Division of Chemistry, Dudley has previously chaired WVU’s Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry. He also held positions at Florida State University.
His research focuses on synthesis, physical organic chemistry, and catalysis. This work is documented in over 100 publications and multiple patents. Dudley earned his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry from Florida State University.
Dudley emphasized student success as a priority: “My first priority is to listen and learn, especially in getting to know the people who make NSM such a vibrant and dynamic community.” He added, “I want every student in NSM to feel seen, supported, challenged, and inspired.”
The college consists of six departments: chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology and biochemistry, earth and atmospheric sciences, and computer science. It includes faculty members who are part of the National Academies and recipients of presidential honors.
Dudley succeeds Dan Wells as dean. Wells had been dean since 2015 but will return to faculty duties.
UH Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Diane Z. Chase commented on Dudley's appointment: “We look forward to welcoming Dr. Dudley as NSM’s new dean. He is enthusiastic, energetic and eager to get to work.”