The Look to Michigan Faculty Expansion Program is actively recruiting mid-career tenure-track faculty to enhance transformative inquiry in high-impact research and societal challenge areas. This initiative aims to recruit colleagues who can drive collaboration, provide leadership, and align with the Look to Michigan framework’s key impact areas. The program’s focus includes life-changing education, human health and well-being, democracy and civic engagement, sustainability, and advanced technology.
Provost Laurie K. McCauley stated, “The Look to Michigan Faculty Expansion Program builds on our 200-year legacy of scholarly leadership and impact.” The Provost’s Office will contribute cost-sharing funds for salaries and start-up support. Faculty selected will receive the Michigan Impact Professor designation for a five-year, nonrenewable term, subject to regental approval.
The Michigan Impact Professorships support recruiting outstanding faculty whose research tackles major societal challenges while enhancing U-M’s interdisciplinary leadership and innovation. In November, the Board of Regents approved appointments of faculty members to these professorships.
David Conroy
- Bickner Chair of Kinesiology, and professor of kinesiology, School of Kinesiology
- Impact areas: Advanced technology and human health and well-being
- Conroy’s research focuses on tools empowering physical activity to boost well-being. His work integrates teaching and research, preparing professionals to address global challenges like climate change’s impact on movement and health. Known for evidence-based teaching, he fosters student success and growth.
Sara Dean
- Associate professor of art and design, Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design
- Impact area: Energy, climate action, sustainability and environmental equity
- Dean is acclaimed for collaborative, innovative solutions aimed at the common good. Her creative practices address global challenges and promote equitable, resilient futures. She emphasizes access, transparency, and resilience in her work and views design education as a path to critical thinking and sustained curiosity.
Jonathan Lifshitz
- Professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation, Medical School; and professor of kinesiology, School of Kinesiology
- Impact area: Human health and well-being
- Lifshitz is a leader in traumatic brain injury research, focusing on neuroinflammation and rehabilitation. He highlights domestic violence as a source of brain injuries and aims to create supportive networks. Lifshitz fosters a collaborative research environment, encouraging innovative, impactful research through creative ideas.
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