Indianapolis, June 8, 2016
Dr. Pratibha Varma-Nelson, a Professor of Chemistry Chemical Biology at the Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) has been appointed as founding executive director of the campus’ STEM Education Innovation and Research Institute, according a report published in Inside Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis (news for faculty and staff from IUPUI).
Announcement of the nationally recognized leader in STEM education and research Pratibha Varma-Nelson, who did her B S in Chemistry from Pune University (India) in 1970 was made by Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Simon Atkinson has announced the appointment of Pratibha Varma-Nelson.
"I am truly honored to be appointed as the founding executive director of the STEM Education Innovation and Research Institute," Varma-Nelson said. "I look forward to my future collaborations with IUPUI faculty, staff and students as we push IUPUI to the forefront of STEM education research, innovation and practice."
The institute builds upon IUPUI’s substantial strengths in science, technology, engineering and math education and research. It is dedicated to the development, dissemination and promotion of STEM education programs and initiatives across the campus and in collaboration with external partners.
As executive director, Varma-Nelson will lead the institute in the realization of nationally acclaimed STEM research and education initiatives, supported through external funding. Additionally, she will coordinate, strengthen and grow campus STEM efforts; lead the development of major grant proposals; collaborate in recruiting faculty with a focus on STEM education, research and innovation; and broadly promote IUPUI STEM efforts nationally and internationally.
"Pratibha’s vast knowledge, leadership and passion for STEM education, research and innovation make her an ideal selection for this important position," Atkinson said. "Her extensive experience will help the campus and university further one of its strategic priorities of accelerating innovation and discovery through research and creative activity and will also help us capitalize on the outstanding faculty expertise in STEM education at IUPUI."
Pratibha Varma-Nelson has co-authored many publications; made numerous presentations in national and international venues; and regularly reviews for the National Science Foundation, the Journal of Chemical Education and Cell Biology Education, among others.