The Agricultural Research Division at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has announced the appointment of three acting associate deans who will help guide the division in the months ahead.
The new acting associate deans are:
- Dr. Nicole Buan, Department of Biochemistry, who will lead efforts to advance innovation and growth in Nebraska's bioeconomy.
- Dr. Amanda Ramer-Tait, Department of Food Science and Technology, who will focus on precision nutrition and rural health while expanding partnerships with UNMC and other strategic collaborators.
- Dr. Brian Wardlow, School of Natural Resources, who will focus on spatial sciences and their integration with the bioeconomy, digital agriculture, natural resources, human health and prosperity, and artificial intelligence.
Together, they will help advance key strategic priorities, leverage existing strengths, and strengthen collaboration across IANR, the University of Nebraska System, and external partners. In addition to advancing strategic initiatives, the Acting Associate Deans will support ARD's operational priorities. Each dean will serve in a 0.3 FTE capacity.
“I’m thrilled to work alongside these three talented leaders as we continue advancing ARD’s work across IANR and throughout Nebraska,” said interim ARD Dean Tala Awada. “Each brings distinctive strengths, deep expertise and a strong commitment to our land-grant mission. I’m grateful for their willingness to serve in these roles and help guide ARD’s next chapter.”
