URI life sciences dean takes new job

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I.  - The dean of life sciences at the University of Rhode Island and a vocal advocate of expanding the state’s biotechnology sector is leaving to take a job at Texas A&M.

Jeffrey Seemann made the announcement in an e-mail to students on Monday.

The 54-year-old Seemann tells The Providence Journal that he is looking for the “next great challenge” in his career.

He says his decision has nothing to do with URI’s search for a new president. Seemann applied for the position, but was not chosen
as a finalist.

Seemann is leaving Rhode Island just a few months after the completion of a $59 million biotechnology center at its South Kingstown campus. He envisioned the complex as a springboard for professors to develop new drugs and technologies.