Biochemical Engineer, Academic Leader Chosen as New Engineering Dean

06/13/2025

David Joyner, senior director, communications and digital media, David_Joyner@uml.edu
Nancy Cicco, assistant director of media relations, Nancy_Cicco@uml.edu

LOWELL, Mass. — An accomplished biochemical engineer and academic leader with ties to the Greater Lowell region has been selected to lead UMass Lowell’s Francis College of Engineering.

Susan C. Roberts, a Billerica native and head of the Chemical Engineering Department at Worcester Polytechnic Institute for the past 10 years, will join UMass Lowell as dean of the engineering college following a national search. Roberts begins her new role on Monday, Aug. 4.

“Professor Roberts is a dynamic, enthusiastic leader with an impressive record of elevating the careers of the students, faculty and staff around her,” said UMass Lowell Provost Joseph C. Hartman. “We’re absolutely thrilled to bring her to UMass Lowell, where we know she will be an inspiring, motivating influence for the college.”

Bertie Greer, dean of the Manning School of Business at UMass Lowell and co-chair of the search committee, said Roberts’ enthusiasm for creating rigorous, inclusive learning environments, and forging relationships with industry and community partners, was an important factor in her selection.

Greer said her selection is especially significant in light of UMass Lowell’s recent designation as a Research 1 university, placing it in the top 7% of all U.S. colleges and universities in terms of research activity.

“Sue Roberts is by all accounts a great colleague and leader, as well as a talented engineer, whose commitment to research and education at the cutting edge of innovation will represent an important leadership voice in the Francis College and throughout our university,” said Greer.

Cindy Conde ’87 ’90, outgoing chair of the Francis College of Engineering’s Industrial Advisory Board, and search committee co-chair, said she looks forward to Roberts’ leadership in the engineering school.

“She really impressed the committee with her vision for creating meaningful, lasting connections that will elevate the college’s reputation, help to advance the faculty of the college and support the success of our students,” said Conde. “I can’t wait for our students, faculty, alumni and industry partners to get to know her.”

“Susan Roberts’ reputation precedes her as a bright mind in biochemical engineering, and as a thoughtful teacher and administrator,” said UMass Lowell Chancellor Julie Chen. “I’m thrilled that she will be joining our team.” 

Prior to joining Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Roberts spent 17 years on the Chemical Engineering faculty of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she was only the third woman promoted to full professor in the College of Engineering and the first faculty member to pursue biochemical engineering research in the Department of Chemical Engineering.

During her tenure at UMass Amherst, Roberts created a world-renowned program in plant cell engineering and biotechnology, led the creation of the Institute for Cellular Engineering, and developed pathfinding curricula focused on the intersection of engineering and life sciences.

She also served as associate dean of the UMass Amherst Graduate School from 2013 to 2015 where she was instrumental in the founding of the Graduate School’s Office of Professional Development.

Roberts said she looks forward to joining UMass Lowell in part because of the university’s emphasis on bringing together people from a variety of backgrounds, including first-generation students and those from underrepresented communities.

“What most excites me about joining UMass Lowell are the people and the students. I am impressed by the commitment shared by everyone, from staff and faculty to the chancellor, in creating an incredible space for discovery and learning,” Roberts said.

“An important focus of my work has always been supporting the advancement and success of all students, and inspiring students through research and training to pursue their passions,” she added. “That resonates with UMass Lowell’s focus and mission.”

Roberts said she is also enthusiastic about faculty development and elevating the already strong reputation of the Francis College of Engineering.

“So many incredible things are happening there, from unique educational programs to innovative research to industry partnerships. I am thrilled by the opportunity to help the college develop and tell its story,” she said.

For Roberts, the new role represents a return to both the University of Massachusetts and the Greater Lowell region. The Billerica native graduated from Billerica High School before going on to earn a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic, and a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, with a minor in biochemistry, from Cornell University. 

At UMass Lowell, Roberts will succeed Jim Sherwood, a mechanical engineer who has served on the faculty for more than 30 years, including the past six years as dean.

Sherwood announced that he would step down from the Dean role last October.