Chancellor Rich Lyons and Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Ben Hermalin announced today that Interim Dean Richard Harland has been appointed as dean of the Division of Biological Sciences:
Dear Campus Community,
We are pleased to announce that Richard Harland has been selected to serve as dean of the College of Letters & Science Division of Biological Sciences at UC Berkeley. Professor Harland has been serving the university as interim dean since July 2024, senior associate dean since 2016, and professor of molecular and cellular biology since 1984. He begins his term as dean effective immediately.
Throughout his professorial tenure on campus, Professor Harland has made numerous contributions to the division, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to the campus community. He has twice served as co-chair of the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and as the head of what is currently the Division of Genetics, Genomics, Evolution, and Development. In the role of dean, Harland will oversee the division's academic programs, faculty recruitment, research initiatives, budget management, alumni relations and fundraising efforts.
Professor Harland’s extensive background in molecular and cell biology, coupled with his leadership experience, positions him well to take on this important role. His tenure as a professor and department chair has made him well-versed in the differing needs of faculty, staff and students. His skilled leadership will keep the division moving forward as it continues to pursue groundbreaking advancements across a broad spectrum of biological disciplines, from cellular mechanisms to ecosystems. Professor Harland strives to be an inclusive and supportive leader and will play a vital role in continuing to develop the division as a diverse place of belonging for all.
Professor Harland’s decades of experience within Berkeley and his scientific achievements, including his election to the National Academy of Sciences and as a fellow of the Royal Society of London, underscore his capacity to elevate the division’s global reputation. His leadership style — rooted in collaboration, mentorship and a light touch — has earned him the respect of his colleagues across the university.
Please join us in welcoming Professor Harland to his new role as dean of the Division of Biological Sciences. We extend our sincere thanks to the members of the search committee for their hard work and dedication. We are excited to work with Professor Harland as he leads the division and ensures its continued influence and impact on the global scientific community.
Sincerely,
Richard K. Lyons
Chancellor
Benjamin E. Hermalin
Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost
