Reappointment of Kristen W. Lynch, MD, as Chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
September 22, 2023
To:Penn Medicine Faculty, Students, and Staff
From:J. Larry Jameson, MD, PhD
EVP/Dean
Jonathan A. Epstein, MD
EVD/CSO
Re: Reappointment of Kristen W. Lynch, MD, as Chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
We are pleased to announce the reappointment of Dr. Kristen W. Lynch for a second six-year term as Chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics. The reappointment follows a review process that included an extensive self-study, followed by an internal committee review, and an external review by three leaders in the fields of biochemistry and biophysics.
Faculty and reviewers affirmed Dr. Lynch’s reputation as a visionary and collaborative Chair and institutional citizen. Under her impactful leadership, the Department has strengthened its position as a world-class department defined by its collegial culture, integrated approach, cutting-edge research and rigorous educational offerings. Over the past six years, Dr. Lynch has recruited a stellar cadre of diverse faculty at all levels, enhancing strengths in the NMR field, and expanding the Department’s focus in RNA biology, chemical biology, molecular modeling and immunity. Faculty engagement, mentorship and morale are strong and on a positive trajectory.
The review also highlighted the Department’s strength in research and education. Dr. Lynch’s leadership yielded successes in the research domain, with notable increases in extramural funding. The median extramural grant activity per faculty doubled since 2017 and the Department obtained over $8.7M in extramural funding to support the biophysical infrastructure. The educational offerings are outstanding, with essential contributions in medical school teaching in Biochemistry and research training and mentorship of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
The valuable feedback gathered during this process will enable Dr. Lynch and Penn Medicine leadership to continue to enhance the Department’s track record of excellence in all missions. It is our firm belief that Dr. Lynch will continue to elevate both Penn Medicine and the University, and we ask that you join us in congratulating her in her reappointment.