Kaufman, who started at UIC in 1985 as an assistant professor, has served previously as head of the department of biological sciences, director of graduate studies, chief academic and operating officer, professor of biological sciences and adjunct professor of bioengineering. The focus of his research is the regulation of gene expression, signal transduction, and crop productivity. He has published extensively and has patents related to his research. Prior to his appointment as provost, Kaufman was vice provost for planning and programs, guiding the development and a ssessment of traditional academic programs, online and international education, and pipeline programs. As chief planner for the campus he provided leadership towards many UIC initiatives including Energy and Sustainability, Diversity Strategic Thinking and Planning, Academic Directions, and Campus Master Planning. From 2003 to 2008, Kaufman served as vice provost for undergraduate affairs and dean of the Honors College. While in that role, he was instrumental in redesigning the General Education program, implementing Summer College for incoming freshman, opening two learning centers, securing campus reaccreditation, and dramatically renovating three classroom buildings, bringing them to LEED standards. Kaufman also played a major role in the creation of the UIC College Prep High School, a health science – focused charter school now among the most successful open-enrollment Chicago public schools. He continues his commitment to diversity, social justice, and student success. Kaufman received his PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.
This project is funded by the National Science Foundation, grants # 0822241, 1449550, 1650648, 1743807, and 1813076. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.