Indrajeet Chaubey reappointed Dean of UConn’s College of Agriculture

During his first term, Indian American professor oversaw record growth in research, academics, and extension engagement

Indian American professor Indrajeet Chaubey has been reappointed to a second five-year term as dean of the University of Connecticut’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) and the Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture.

A comprehensive University review led by the Office of the Provost determined CAHNR has continued to excel in its missions of teaching, research, and community engagement as well as in national reputation and fiscal management, under Chaubey’s leadership, according to a University release.

“Dean Chaubey’s leadership has been characterized by significant achievements that align closely with the College’s mission and the broader goals of UConn,” says UConn Provost Anne D’Alleva. “As we look ahead, I am confident in Dean Chaubey’s ability to continue to lead CAHNR with distinction and foresight. The ongoing dialogue he maintains with our community is vital in shaping a transparent and inclusive future for the College.”

Chaubey joined UConn in 2019 after serving in several leadership positions at Purdue University. In addition to his administrative roles, Chaubey is an internationally recognized researcher in the field of ecohydrology and nonpoint source pollution.

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His research has focused on the lack of clean water in many parts of the world. Simulation models and tools that he has developed help guide policy and decision makers, watershed managers, conservation specialists, and farmers.

During his first term, Chaubey led CAHNR to significant growth across mission areas. CAHNR’s research enterprise has more than doubled, with $41.5 million in new awards in FY23, according to the release.

Undergraduate and graduate enrollment has also experienced record highs, and new academic offerings continue to meet the evolving needs of students. UConn Extension’s programs reached nearly 174,000 Connecticut residents in 2023 through over 500 programs offered around the state.

“These programs have not only enriched our educational offerings but have also positioned us as leaders in fields critical to sustainability, as well as human, animal, and environmental health,” says D’Alleva.

In his role as CAHNR dean, Chaubey also serves as director of the Connecticut Cooperative Extension System and the Storrs Agricultural Experiment Station.

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Since 2019, Chaubey has led the College’s efforts to develop and implement a Strategic Vision based on CAHNR’s strengths in the areas of sustainable agriculture; human, animal, and environmental health; climate change adaptation and resilience; diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice; and sustainable landscapes at the urban-rural interface.

“As I reflect on the past term, I am inspired by the incredible progress the College has made internally and with our external partners,” says Chaubey. “I am committed to continuing to foster an environment of collaboration, innovation, and growth, that enables our students to thrive, our research to break boundaries, and our community engagement to make a meaningful impact. I am immensely proud to be part of such an extraordinary team.”