Ohio University Appoints New Dean of Arts and Sciences

4,200 undergraduate students, ended after  Dr. Robert Frank was appointed to the position. His new title will be effective Aug. 1, 2012.

Frank is currently a professor of psychology and the associate dean for research and graduate studies in the McMicken College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Cincinnati.

After receiving a B.A. in psychology and philosophy from Allegheny College, an M.A. in psychology from the University of Cincinnati and a Ph.D. in experimental psychology with an emphasis in neuroscience from the University of Cincinnati, Frank moved on to begin his distinguished career.

His career includes co-founding CompuSniff, LLC, which was a formed in 2002 to develop a medical device designed to help diagnose olfactory disorders that could be harbingers of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. The Sniff Magnitude Test developed by the company was named one of the best inventions of 2007 by Popular Science.

“I chose psychology because I was fascinated by the brain,” said Frank. “Most of my research focused on the sensory systems and memory in relation to your biological orientation.”

Ohio University has been communicating with Frank for three decades due to his involvement on statewide boards, so when the opening in College of the Arts and Sciences arose, Frank was excited.

“I was positively impressed by the progress and quality of work I was asked to evaluate, along with the interactions and initiatives at Ohio University,” said Frank. “So I was thrilled when the opportunity to consider a position came up.” 

Although the transition will not be effective until August, Frank said he is looking forward to making the move to Athens. He is looking forward to stepping up to the challenge and honor of helping to steer students in the right direction.

“Higher education is changing and we must be aware of the changes and what the appropriate courses to allow us to fulfill the traditional mission of the school along with seeking ways to create change,” said Frank.

One change he plans to make is to create the opportunity to explore important educational opportunities and practice talents and skills in ways that are most engaging.

“My main message to the Ohio University community is that I am fully dedicated in affording these experiences for students which will last a lifetime. I feel confident that I’ll strive to meet those expectations,” he said.