Morgan State Appoints Acclaimed Scientist As University Distinguished Professor

Dr. Paul B. Tchounwou, School of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences Dean, One of Only Three Faculty to Earn the Distinction

Paul B. Tchounwou, Ph.D., Sc.D., dean of Morgan State University’s School of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences (SCMNS) and a globally recognized biomedical research scientist, has been appointed University Distinguished Professor—one of the institution’s highest faculty honors. Endorsed by Hongtao Yu, DSc., provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs and bestowed by Morgan President David K. Wilson, the designation recognizes his enduring impact on academic research, eminent service, significant contributions to the University’s mission, and the profound impact of his leadership, both within the institution and nationally. Dr. Tchounwou is one of only three current faculty members to hold this distinction.

“I am deeply honored to be named University Distinguished Professor at Morgan State University, as this recognition reflects not only my personal commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and service, but also the collective dedication of my colleagues and students who continue to advance the University’s mission of growing the future and leading the world,” said Dr. Tchounwou. “I remain committed to fostering innovation, mentoring the next generation of scholars, and contributing to the global impact of our institution—the National Treasure.”

The designation of University Distinguished Professor is the highest honor a university bestows upon a tenured faculty member, recognizing extraordinary national and international distinction in research, teaching, and service. It reflects exceptional scholarly influence and affirms the recipient’s standing as a leader whose work extends beyond a single discipline. 

Ranked among the “World’s Top 2% of Scientists,” Dr. Tchounwou has built a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years marked by significant achievements in research and education. His expertise and scholarly achievements are reflected in his securing more than $100 million in research funding, authoring nearly 300 peer-reviewed publications, and delivering more than 600 scientific presentations. In 2024, Dr. Tchounwou was elected as a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the world’s largest general scientific society, for his seminal contributions to the identification of molecular targets for cancer therapy, as well as policy decisions by the U. S. Government regarding the management of toxic and hazardous materials.

Throughout his career, he has played a crucial role in advancing scientific discourse as an editor-in-chief of several scientific journals and as the lead of federally funded research centers and programs. His outstanding contributions to mentoring and STEM education have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the 2013 AAAS Mentor Award and the 2018 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring.

Dr. Tchounwou has served as dean of the School of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences since joining the University in 2022. Prior to coming to Morgan State, he held various leadership positions at Jackson State University.

A huge congratulations to Dr. Paul Tchounwou on this remarkable achievement. Dr. Tchounwou stands alongside Gaston N'Guerekata, Ph.D., professor of Mathematics, and Farin Kamangar, M.D., Ph.D., associate vice president for Research, as one of the select few professors in Morgan to be honored with this elite recognition and esteemed academic rank.