Innovative Leadership: Paula Hammond Appointed First Female Dean of MIT Engineering

Paula Hammond, a distinguished academic and leader in chemical engineering, has been appointed as the new dean of MIT’s School of Engineering, marking a historic milestone as the first woman in this role.

Leadership Transition at MIT’s School of Engineering

Paula Hammond will officially take office on January 16, succeeding Anantha Chandrakasan, who recently became MIT’s provost. Hammond’s leadership experience includes heading the Department of Chemical Engineering from 2015 to 2023.

MIT President Sally Kornbluth praised Hammond’s scientific rigor, creativity, and dedication to the Institute, emphasizing her deep understanding of MIT’s culture and her ability to lead effectively.

Research Excellence and Recognition

As a member of the Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Hammond has made groundbreaking contributions in polymers and nanomaterials. Her research advances applications such as drug delivery, regenerative medicine, noninvasive imaging, and battery technology.

She developed innovative thin-film materials using charged polymeric layers, enabling precise polymer architectures for ultrathin batteries and targeted drug delivery systems.

Her accolades include the 2024 National Medal of Technology and Innovation and MIT’s Killian Award for extraordinary professional achievements.

“Paula’s scholarly contributions are exceptional and have significantly advanced knowledge in her field.”

Commitment to Education and Mentorship

Hammond has been a devoted mentor and educator, recognized repeatedly for her dedication to teaching and student development. She served as vice provost for faculty, spearheading initiatives to improve recruitment, retention, mentoring, and professional growth.

Her leadership in the Chemical Engineering Department included launching strategic planning that encouraged collaborative research and redesigned the undergraduate curriculum for greater flexibility.

In her own words, “I found great fulfillment in enabling faculty to explore new research areas and ensuring they had the necessary support and mentorship.”

Vision for Interdisciplinary Growth and AI Integration

As dean, Hammond plans to engage with faculty school-wide to identify priorities through open dialogue. She is passionate about breaking down departmental silos to foster interdisciplinary education.

She emphasized the importance of integrating artificial intelligence into the curriculum while providing students with practical, hands-on experience aligned with emerging technologies.

Hammond stated, “MIT should lead in preparing students for an interdisciplinary and AI-driven future,” building upon the strategic foundations laid by her predecessor.

Personal Journey and Legacy

Born and raised in Detroit, Hammond was inspired by her biochemist father and nursing school-founder mother, cultivating an early passion for science. After completing her undergraduate degree in chemical engineering at MIT, she pursued advanced studies before returning as a faculty member.

She has served on numerous prestigious advisory boards and councils, with memberships in the National Academies of Engineering, Sciences, and Medicine highlighting her influence in the scientific community.