Northwestern University Welcomes Erik Luijten as New Provost
Change is in the air at Northwestern University, as Erik Luijten steps into the role of provost, succeeding Kathleen Hagerty. This appointment marks a significant shift in the university's academic leadership, and it's bound to shape the future of Northwestern.
Luijten, a distinguished professor of Materials Science and Engineering, brings a wealth of experience to his new position. He has a proven track record of fostering collaboration across various schools and disciplines, including initiatives like the Center for Scientific Studies in the Arts and Northwestern’s Prison Education Program. He has been in academic leadership roles at Northwestern for over a decade. In his current role, he has managed research administration, research development and Northwestern Engineering’s Ph.D. programs since 2023.
Interim President Henry Bienen expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m pleased to welcome distinguished scientist and administrator Erik Luijten as our next provost.” He highlighted Luijten's 17 years at Northwestern, marked by academic excellence, interdisciplinary efforts, and strong leadership.
Luijten's background in fundamental research, coupled with his efforts to bridge the gap between the physical sciences, arts, and humanities, makes him uniquely suited to lead Northwestern’s academic mission. He has shown an ability to translate institutional priorities into clear policies that support faculty, staff, and students.
But here's where it gets interesting: Luijten himself sees this as a pivotal moment for Northwestern. He emphasized his commitment to elevating the university's global presence and strengthening the creativity and innovation that define Northwestern's identity.
He is grateful for Hagerty’s leadership and is excited to learn from her in the coming months as he transitions to the provost role. He believes that disciplined strategic investments in faculty excellence, research infrastructure, and the student experience will ensure that Northwestern maintains its lead in emerging fields while preserving its distinct style in education and scholarship.
Francesca Cornelli, dean of the Kellogg School of Management, who chaired the Provost Search Committee, noted that Luijten was selected from an exceptional group of finalists. She was impressed by his passion for Northwestern, commitment to interdisciplinary study, and dedication to excellence.
As the University’s chief academic officer, the provost reports to the president and works with the deans, administrative leadership, faculty, and staff to set and advance the institution’s intellectual mission. The provost oversees 12 schools and numerous academic and operational units that advance Northwestern’s educational and research mission.
Hagerty, who was appointed provost in 2020, is excited to work closely with Professor Luijten in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition.
Before his current role, Luijten served as director of the Applied Physics Graduate Program; department chair, Materials Science and Engineering; academic director, Center for Scientific Studies in the Arts; and associate dean for Faculty Affairs at McCormick. Prior to joining Northwestern, Luijten was an associate professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Luijten's accolades include being a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Physical Society. He has also received the Xerox Award for faculty research and a CAREER Award from the National Science Foundation. He holds B.S./M.S. degrees in physics from Utrecht University and a Ph.D. in applied physics from Delft University of Technology.
And this is the part most people miss: Luijten's personal life is as rich as his professional one. He resides in Evanston and is engaged to Dima Awad. He is a proud father to Hildegard and Benjamin and a devoted stepfather to Jude and Norah. He and his fiancée also co-parent their beloved dog, Charlie.
Controversy & Comment Hooks: What do you think about the appointment of Erik Luijten? Do you believe his interdisciplinary approach will benefit Northwestern? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
