He will assume the position on a half-time basis May 15, and will transition to full-time on January 1, 2018.

Dr. Chaubey was a full professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering before taking the Department Head position in the College of Science. Dr. Chaubey brings a "long track record of international activity and outstanding scholarly record to this role. He's a proven leader and collaborator, has established his ability to build and lead strong and productive teams, and has a true passion to help us take our international programs to even higher levels of excellence. I am very excited about the future of IPIA and our College's international activities under his leadership," wrote Akridge in his announcement.

Dr. Akrikdge also extends his deepest thanks to the search committee for a job well done: Laura Bergdooll, Natalie Carroll, Paul Ebner, Gebisa Ejecta, Heather Fabries, Kara Hartman, Peter Hirst, Bill Horan, Klein Ileleji, Suzanne Nielsen, Ragu Ragothama, Arvind Raman, Jake Ricker-Gilbert, and Jeff Stuart.

Special thanks to Dr. Ragu Raghothama for his dedicated leadership through this transition period.