Washington State University (WSU) has announced the appointment of Dr. Nairanjana Dasgupta, a distinguished researcher of Indian origin, as the new chair of its Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

Dr. Dasgupta, who has been with WSU for 28 years, takes over the role from Charles Moore, who led the department for more than a decade. Her appointment signals a new phase for the department, which plays an important role at the university by giving more student credit hours than any other academic unit.

Dr. Dasgupta has made significant contributions to academia and interdisciplinary research throughout her career in the fields of data science and bioengineering.

She has been a co-principal investigator on various National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants which include projects focused on 3D-printed bone and dental implants, securing more than $3.5 million in research funding. Her leadership has played an important role in raising the department’s profile and enhancing WSU’s reputation.

In addition to her new position, Dr. Dasgupta will continue to lead WSU’s Data Analytics Program, which she has transformed into a practical learning platform with strong industry ties. Under her guidance, the program has developed partnerships with leading companies in Washington State, providing students with real-world experience. Over her tenure, Dr. Dasgupta has also supervised more than 80 graduate students across fields such as mathematics, statistics, and data science.

Dr. Dasgupta’s commitment to education and outreach extends beyond the university. She has spearheaded initiatives like data “playshops,” which are designed to improve data literacy among elementary school students and their families in underserved communities.

Her work in this area, along with her dedication to mentoring the next generation of researchers, has earned her several accolades, including being named a Fellow of the American Statistical Association (ASA) and a member of the Washington State Academy of Sciences.

As Dr. Dasgupta takes on her new leadership role, she has emphasized her focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Her appointment highlights WSU’s dedication to research excellence and underscores the growing influence of Indian-origin researchers in shaping U.S. academia.