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Farnam Jahanian
President at Carnegie Mellon University
Professional Background
Farnam Jahanian is a prominent academic and institution leader, currently holding the esteemed position as the 10th president of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), a role he has passionately embraced since his appointment by the university's Board of Trustees in March 2018. Under his leadership, CMU continues to thrive as a global powerhouse for innovation and research.
Before ascending to the presidency, Jahanian made significant contributions to CMU as the vice president for research from 2014 to 2015, where he dedicated himself to fostering excellence in research, scholarship, and creative activities across the university. His commitment to academic leadership further expanded when he served as provost and chief academic officer from May 2015 to June 2017, during which he skillfully guided CMU’s various schools, colleges, and campuses toward achieving their educational and research missions.
Farnam Jahanian's impressive career prior to CMU includes a noteworthy tenure as the director of the Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) Directorate at the National Science Foundation from 2011 to 2014. His experience in this vital role has deeply enriched his understanding of how innovation and research can address national priorities and significantly impact global competitiveness.
Education and Achievements
Jahanian's academic credentials are commendable, holding both a Ph.D. and a Master of Science degree in computer science from the prestigious University of Texas at Austin. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. His educational background has equipped him with a strong foundation in computer science, allowing him to thrive in various research and leadership roles.
Among his numerous achievements, Jahanian is recognized as an active advocate for the essential role of basic research in fostering an innovation ecosystem. His research in internet infrastructure security has been groundbreaking, leading to the foundation of Arbor Networks, a security company he co-founded in 2001. Jahanian served as its chairman until its successful acquisition in 2010, underscoring his entrepreneurial spirit and influence in the tech industry.
In addition to his leadership roles, Jahanian holds significant positions in several organizations committed to advancing technology and research. He serves as chair of the National Research Council's Computer Science and Telecommunications Board (CSTB), showcasing his dedication to governance in scientific research. Furthermore, he is a trustee of the Dietrich Foundation and an active board member of the National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT), the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute, and the Allegheny Conference on Community Development. These positions reflect his commitment to community development and pushing the boundaries of technology and education.
Achievements
Farnam Jahanian's contributions to the field of computer science have garnered him the accolade of being named a fellow of several prestigious organizations, including the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). These honors illustrate his impact on both academia and industry, placing him among the elite in the STEM community.
As president of Carnegie Mellon University, Jahanian continues to lead with integrity and vision, emphasizing an educational environment that nurtures interdisciplinary learning and innovative research. Through his leadership, CMU remains dedicated to equipping students with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving world, cementing the university's reputation as a trailblazer in technology, arts, and sciences.
