From the Philippines to the pinnacle of American academia, the evolutionary biologist takes on a new chapter of leadership at New York University
NEW YORK — When Dr. Michael Purugganan walks into his new office on July 1, it won’t just mark the start of his term as Interim Dean of NYU’s Faculty of Arts and Science. It will mark another summit in a career that has stretched across continents, disciplines, and generations of scientific discovery—rooted in the Philippines, refined in the global halls of learning.
Purugganan, a noted biologist and expert in plant evolutionary genomics, will temporarily take the helm of one of the most expansive and prestigious academic divisions in the United States. His appointment was formally announced in a university-wide memorandum issued on May 27 by NYU President Linda G. Mills and Provost Georgina Dopico.
“Michael brings a deep familiarity with Arts and Science to the deanship,” the memo stated, citing his reputation as a prolific scholar, thoughtful administrator, and staunch advocate for academic excellence.
From Manila to Manhattan: A Life in Discovery
Born in the Philippines, Purugganan’s journey is emblematic of the global academic spirit. He joined NYU in 2006 and is now Silver Professor of Biology, a distinguished title granted to scholars who have demonstrated exceptional merit. He has led breakthrough research in plant genomics, unraveling how species evolve over time—insights that hold profound implications for agriculture, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Yet his work extends far beyond the lab. From 2012 to 2019, he served as Dean of Science at NYU, shaping the next generation of scholars while directing the NYU Center for Genomics and Systems Biology. His vision was expansive: he helped found the NYU Abu Dhabi Center for Genomics and Systems Biology and currently serves as Academic Director at 19 Washington Square North, a hub for global academic exchange.
Outside NYU, his influence is equally far-reaching. Purugganan sits on the board of the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, advises the National Science Foundation, and represents the United States on the Council of Scientists for the Human Frontiers Science Program—an international initiative championing frontier research.
Bridging Continents, Advancing Science
Purugganan’s achievements are as deeply rooted in his heritage as they are in his scientific rigor. A corresponding member of the National Academy of Science and Technology of the Philippines (NAST-PHL), he is a rare figure who moves easily between the intellectual circles of the U.S. and Southeast Asia.
His peers have long recognized his work. He is a member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, a Guggenheim Fellow, and a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. In 2024, he was appointed a visiting fellow at All Souls College, University of Oxford—joining a storied community of scholars with centuries of academic lineage.
These accolades reflect not just personal achievement, but a growing recognition of the contributions of Filipino and Filipino-American minds to global knowledge.
Guiding NYU Through Transition
Purugganan steps into the interim deanship at a pivotal moment. NYU is preparing for the departure of Antonio Merlo, who is set to become president of Drexel University. While a formal search committee will be convened for the permanent role, Purugganan’s steady hand and institutional memory offer continuity.
The appointment has been met with enthusiasm across NYU’s diverse academic community, especially among students and faculty who see in Purugganan’s leadership a renewed commitment to inclusivity, excellence, and global perspective.
“We are very grateful to Michael,” the university statement concluded, “and have every confidence in his stewardship of Arts and Science.”
An Academic Journey Still Unfolding
For now, the path ahead is one of transition. But for Filipino-American scholars, and for a broader academic world that increasingly looks beyond borders for leadership, Dr. Michael Purugganan’s story is already a landmark—of what is possible when intellect, purpose, and identity converge at the highest levels of learning.
