McGill University names new Dean of Faculty of Science

McGill University Principal Heather Munroe-Blum and Provost Luc Vinet announced today the appointment of Professor Martin Grant as Dean of the Faculty of Science for a five-year term beginning June 1, 2005. Professor Grant will succeed Professor Alan Shaver, who is currently completing his second five-year term. The appointment was approved by the Board of Governors of the University at its February 7, 2005, meeting.

Professor Grant received his PhD from the University of Toronto in 1982. He joined McGill in 1986, and is now a James McGill Professor. His research involves the development and use of theoretical methods and computer-based models to simulate the properties of materials in non-equilibrium states, i.e., far from their normal operating conditions. His investigations include the study of first order phase transitions, crystal growth, polymeric fluids systems, and atomic scale friction.

Professor Grant is currently the Chair of the Department of Physics. He has served as Associate Dean (Research) in the Faculty of Science, as well as Director of the Centre for the Physics of Materials. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society last year.

Professor Grant will take the lead of a faculty that has developed remarkably over the past decade. It has seen a large renewal of its academic staff and has launched and sustained a number of teaching and research initiatives of great significance.

"Professor Grant is an outstanding scholar and an experienced administrator with an in-depth knowledge of his Faculty," said Provost Luc Vinet. "With all his qualities and experience, he is ideally suited to make the Faculty of Science capitalize on its assets, consolidate and reach new heights. We are exceptionally proud that he has accepted this vital academic leadership role and we wish him much success."