Department of Biology

On July 1, 2017, Greg Demas stepped into the role of chair of the IU Department of Biology. Demas assumed the position upon Professor Clay Fuqua's completion of his four-year term as the head of the department.

Fuqua, in expressing his support, said that Demas will provide forwardlooking, proactive leadership as chair for the Department of Biology, building on his excellent track record of accomplishments as associate chair for research and facilities over the past five years. Fuqua noted that this experience had given Demas extensive familiarity with virtually all aspects of the department.

Demas is a professor of biology. He has been with the department since 2001 and maintains an active research lab. He is interested in how hormones and the immune system interact within the brain to regulate biological and behavioral outcomes in animals. This work is often, but not always, conducted within the context of seasonality, as most animals display pronounced seasonal changes in a wide range of biological responses including breeding, immune and sickness responses, and social behaviors. More recently, his lab has begun studying the role of the gut microbiome on the development of offspring social behavior.

Demas is already hard at work in his new role. Among his goals as chair are:

• • Continued recognition and support for excellence in research
  • Improving and expanding facilities
  • Maintaining strong graduate programs that attract the top students
  • Increasing emphasis on undergraduate education and research
  • Renewed efforts to increase student, staff, and faculty diversity
  • Recognition of the vital contributions of teaching faculty
  • Recognition of the importance of skilled professional and support staff

Professor Scott Michaels replaces Demas as associate chair for research and facilities. Professor Rich Hardy continues as the associate chair for teaching.