Ontario Tech University has announced the appointment of Dr. Ken Wilson as the new Dean of the Faculty of Science, effective Sunday, September 1st.
An expert in plant biochemistry, Dr. Wilson is an associate professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Saskatchewan (USask). His research focuses on how photosynthetic organisms sense changes in their environment and respond to protect themselves from stress and cellular damage. He also explores how the microbial properties of green algae can be used to develop and test theories on how plants sense and respond to such changes.
Dr. Wilson has served in numerous administrative roles at USask, including Chair of Biology, where he has grown student enrollment, led the development of a new certificate in biological research, received numerous awards for teaching excellence, and helped raise funds for student scholarships and awards.
As USask’s vice president for faculty relations, he led faculty recruitment and retention across the university, supported and mentored faculty, and promoted research excellence through the creation of new research divisions.
He currently serves as the Acting Dean of USask's Department of Native Studies, where he promotes reverse mentoring (younger or more junior employees mentoring more senior leaders), supports leadership development for pre-tenure faculty, and develops new internal procedures to streamline decision-making and improve program delivery. He participates in the highest levels of governance at USask and works closely with students, staff and faculty to develop new pathways to graduate education.
In 2023, he was awarded the Lawson Professorship, awarded to a senior professor selected by the faculty for outstanding contributions to the Department of Biology at USask.
Dr. Wilson holds a PhD in Plant Science from Western University, as well as an MSc in Biology and a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of Waterloo.
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“I am pleased to welcome Dr. Ken Wilson to Ontario Tech as Dean of the Faculty of Science. Dr. Wilson has built a track record of academic and teaching excellence, with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to the role the university community plays in promoting social well-being. He has demonstrated a strong understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion by supporting and encouraging underrepresented faculty and students. I look forward to working with Dr. Wilson, along with other members of the university's senior administrative team, to provide leadership and strategic oversight for the Faculty of Science's research, degree programs and activities.”
– Lori A. Livingston, Ph.D.President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University
“I see Ontario Tech as a rising star in Canadian academia, and I am excited about the opportunity to lead Ontario Tech's Faculty of Science and collaborate with the university's senior leadership team and campus community to advance inspiring research, high-quality instruction and thoughtful community engagement in an inclusive environment,” said Dr. They feel valued and respected for who they are and what they do.”
– Dr. Ken WilsonDean-Elect of the Faculty of Science, Ontario Tech University
