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The Daily OrangeUnder the microscope
Dean's scientific background drives plans
By Caitlin Dewey
Posted: 9/11/08, 12:44 AM EST Section: News
At first glance, George Langford is an intimidating figure. Seated in the reception area of his new office suite, Langford speaks in measured tones about science, higher education and his plans for The College of Arts and Sciences. He answers questions precisely, and neither his intonation nor his expression change. He periodically reaches for a coffee mug on the table, but aside from that makes no other movement.
But when talking about his research, Langford's entire manner changes.
"I just want to remind everyone that I'm a scientist," he said. "I'm interested in proteins in cells that are responsible for transporting materials from one part of the cell to the other."
His voice warms audibly as he explains his research, which may have implications for Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases.
"I will have a research laboratory in the new Life Sciences Complex, and I'm looking forward to that," he said. "I haven't moved my equipment yet from the University of Massachusetts, so I can't show … the equipment."
Langford will celebrate his one-month anniversary as dean of The College of Arts and Sciences today. But for the nationally recognized neuroscientist and cell biologist, the real celebration won't begin until he's at work on his plans for the college, including strengthening its science programs.
"I'm very excited to be at Syracuse University," Langford said. "We have so many things going on in the college right now… it's going to be a great year."
Langford has worked in higher education since he completed his post-doctoral training at the University of Pennsylvania in 1973. He holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Fayetteville State University and a master's degree and Ph.D. in cell biology from the Illinois Institute of Technology.
Echoing comments from his April meet-and-greet with students, Langford said his top priority is strengthening SU's physical sciences, such as physics and chemistry, and its quantitative sciences, such as computer science and math.
But when talking about his research, Langford's entire manner changes.
"I just want to remind everyone that I'm a scientist," he said. "I'm interested in proteins in cells that are responsible for transporting materials from one part of the cell to the other."
His voice warms audibly as he explains his research, which may have implications for Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases.
"I will have a research laboratory in the new Life Sciences Complex, and I'm looking forward to that," he said. "I haven't moved my equipment yet from the University of Massachusetts, so I can't show … the equipment."
Langford will celebrate his one-month anniversary as dean of The College of Arts and Sciences today. But for the nationally recognized neuroscientist and cell biologist, the real celebration won't begin until he's at work on his plans for the college, including strengthening its science programs.
"I'm very excited to be at Syracuse University," Langford said. "We have so many things going on in the college right now… it's going to be a great year."
Langford has worked in higher education since he completed his post-doctoral training at the University of Pennsylvania in 1973. He holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Fayetteville State University and a master's degree and Ph.D. in cell biology from the Illinois Institute of Technology.
Echoing comments from his April meet-and-greet with students, Langford said his top priority is strengthening SU's physical sciences, such as physics and chemistry, and its quantitative sciences, such as computer science and math.
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