The University of Arkansas has appointed Dr. Kartik Balachandran, a distinguished Indian-origin professor of biomedical engineering, as the interim associate dean for research in its College of Engineering.
He officially assumed the role on July 16, succeeding Dr. Sandra Eksioglu, who has returned to the faculty after serving in the position for three years.
In this key leadership role, Balachandran will oversee the college’s research strategy, assist faculty in acquiring external research funding, and spearhead initiatives to grow the university’s research enterprise in alignment with its Vision 2035 strategic goals.
His appointment comes at a time when the College of Engineering is actively seeking to expand its footprint in cutting-edge research and innovation, particularly amid evolving challenges in federal research funding.
From Mechanical Engineering to Biomedical Breakthroughs
Balachandran’s academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the National University of Singapore.
His interest in translational science and the potential of engineering in healthcare led him to pursue a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and a Ph.D. in bioengineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
He further honed his expertise during a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University, where his contributions were recognized by the Society of Toxicology’s Association of Scientists of Indian Origin.
In 2012, he joined the University of Arkansas as a faculty member, where his passion for interdisciplinary research flourished.
Now a full professor, Balachandran is widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in the field of microphysiological systems, commonly known as “organs-on-chips.” These 3D models, engineered from human cells and tissues, replicate key organ functions and offer transformative potential for understanding disease mechanisms, studying the effects of toxins, and streamlining pharmaceutical development.
A Proven Leader and Research Powerhouse
Over the past decade, Balachandran has demonstrated exemplary leadership and research acumen. He has authored or co-authored 32 scientific publications and is a co-inventor on seven patent applications, three of which have been awarded.
His work has attracted over $4 million in competitive research grants from prestigious institutions including the U.S. Department of Defense, National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation (NSF), and the American Heart Association.
Notably, he is a recipient of the NSF CAREER Award, one of the most prestigious honors for early-career faculty in the U.S.
In addition to his research contributions, Balachandran has mentored 17 graduate students and consistently earned accolades for teaching and service.
These include the College of Engineering’s Rising Star Award, Faculty Gold Medal, and the Outstanding Teacher, Researcher, and Service Award. Remarkably, he has received the Outstanding Mentor Award every year from 2013 to 2024.
His Vision for the Future
“I am very excited to work with the dean’s office and the college’s research team toward advancing our college’s research mission as we work toward our Vision 2035 strategic objectives,” Balachandran said. “I look forward to strengthening our college’s efforts in promoting innovative and collaborative research activities that can potentially drive economic development in our state.”
Dean of Engineering Kim Needy expressed strong support for the appointment, emphasizing Balachandran’s leadership capabilities and strategic insight.
“I was so pleased when Kartik agreed to step into this role, and I’m confident he will be a great adviser who can guide me and the faculty through uncertain times regarding federal research funding,” she stated.
“This is a key position to realizing the college’s goal to substantially increase the campus’ research enterprise over the next several years.”
Needy also extended her gratitude to Dr. Sandra Eksioglu for her steady leadership during a time of transition. “She has navigated changes calmly and courageously while building a capable research support team that positions us for long-term success,” she said.
As interim associate dean for research, Balachandran is poised to lead the College of Engineering into a new chapter of growth, innovation, and impact, both within Arkansas and across the broader academic and scientific community.
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