South Dakota State University (SDSU) has officially named Indian-American agricultural scientist Dr. Sen Subramanian dean of its College of Natural Sciences.

A long-time contributor to the university’s academic and research excellence, Subramanian was selected for the prestigious role following a comprehensive national search. His tenure as dean begins on January 6, 2025.

Subramanian has served as the interim dean of the College of Natural Sciences since June 2024 and was previously the associate dean for research in the college since 2022. A key figure in SDSU’s academic community since 2009, he has significantly contributed to advancing the institution’s research capabilities and academic prominence.

A Visionary Leader for SDSU’s Natural Sciences

Dr. Subramanian’s leadership has been widely praised. Dennis Hedge, SDSU’s provost and vice president for academic affairs, commended his innovative approach, stating:

“Dr. Subramanian has proven himself to be a strong and collaborative leader. Throughout the search process, his articulated vision for the college and philosophies on interdisciplinary education and research set him apart as the right person to lead our College of Natural Sciences as we pursue our goal of designation as an R1 university as recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education for having the highest levels of research activity.”

Under Subramanian’s guidance, the college aims to strengthen its interdisciplinary programs and foster cutting-edge research, supporting SDSU’s aspirations of achieving R1 status, which signifies the highest level of research activity in U.S. universities.

Expressing gratitude and optimism about his appointment, Dr. Subramanian remarked:

“I am so pleased and grateful for the opportunity to lead this wonderful college with a lot of talent. My goal is to help our amazing team of students, faculty, and staff lead natural sciences education and research in and for the region.”

A Legacy of Research and Academic Excellence

Dr. Subramanian has played an instrumental role in establishing two National Science Foundation-funded research centers at SDSU, contributing to groundbreaking studies in agricultural and natural sciences.

His research program focuses on symbiotic nitrogen fixation, aiming to enhance agricultural sustainability by reducing dependency on nitrogen fertilizers, improving farm profitability, and mitigating environmental impacts.

Over the years, his research has garnered $9.3 million in funding from prestigious agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the National Science Foundation, and the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council.

Scholarly Impact

Subramanian’s scholarly contributions are notable, with 60 peer-reviewed publications cited more than 4,500 times. He has mentored and inspired 22 graduate students and 26 undergraduate research students, solidifying his reputation as an exceptional educator and researcher.

His achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including:

The National Science Foundation CAREER Award

The F.O. Butler Award for Excellence in Research

Recognition as a Fulbright Specialist

Educational Background and Expertise

Dr. Subramanian’s academic journey began in India, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and a master’s in biotechnology. He later pursued a doctorate in biology at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. He completed postdoctoral training at the Danforth Plant Science Center and Washington University in St. Louis.

His global perspective and interdisciplinary expertise make him uniquely qualified to lead SDSU’s College of Natural Sciences into a new era of academic and research excellence.

Future Prospects

Under Dr. Subramanian’s leadership, the College of Natural Sciences is poised to expand its impact on the region and beyond. His vision emphasizes fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders.

As SDSU continues its journey toward achieving R1 status, Dr. Subramanian’s appointment is a significant step forward in the university’s pursuit of excellence in natural sciences education and research.