Bala Sundaram
About Bala Sundaram
Bala Sundaram serves as the Vice Provost for Research and Strategic Initiatives at the University of Massachusetts Boston, where he has worked since 2017. He holds a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics from the University of Pittsburgh and has held various academic positions, including Professor and Department Chair at the University of Massachusetts Boston and Professor at the City University of New York.
Current Role at UMass Boston
Bala Sundaram serves as the Dean of Graduate Studies and Vice Provost for Research and Strategic Initiatives at the University of Massachusetts Boston. He has held this position since 2017. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing graduate programs and advancing research initiatives within the university. His leadership focuses on enhancing academic offerings and fostering strategic partnerships to promote research excellence.
Previous Experience at UMass Boston
Prior to his current role, Bala Sundaram worked at the University of Massachusetts Boston as a Professor and Department Chair from 2006 to 2017. During his tenure, he contributed to the academic development of the department and played a significant role in curriculum design and faculty development. His leadership helped shape the department's direction and academic standards.
Academic Background in Physics
Bala Sundaram earned his Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics from the University of Pittsburgh, where he studied from 1979 to 1984. His foundational education includes a B.Sc./M.Sc. in Physics from St. Stephen's College, Delhi, completed between 1973 and 1978. He also attended Sherwood College, which contributed to his early academic development.
Experience at CUNY
Before his time at UMass Boston, Bala Sundaram was a Professor at the City University of New York (CUNY) from 1996 to 2006. His decade-long experience at CUNY involved teaching and research in physics, contributing to the academic community and mentoring students in their academic pursuits.