The Aga Khan University has appointed cancer biologist and academic leader Dr Kulsoom Ghias as Dean of its Faculty of Arts and Sciences.
She took charge on July 27, 2026, succeeding Professor Stephen Lyon, who served as the Faculty’s inaugural Dean. Lyon said he would remain at FAS as Professor of Anthropology and support the leadership transition.
AKU said Dr Ghias brings a research-driven vision and a strong commitment to interdisciplinary learning. Her career has connected cancer biology, medical education, ethics, and the humanities.
A Career Across Sciences and Humanities
Dr Ghias began her academic journey with a liberal arts foundation at the University of Virginia. She earned a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction there before completing her PhD at Northwestern University in Chicago.
She later conducted postdoctoral research at Northwestern University’s Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center. She also earned an Advanced Diploma in Health Professions Education from AKU.
Her listed research interests include cancer biology, ethics, and medical education. She is also a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy in the United Kingdom.
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Before the new appointment, Dr Ghias led AKU’s Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences for seven years. The department credited her with strengthening its academic direction, mentoring colleagues, and building a collaborative culture.
She has also worked to connect medical training with wider social and ethical questions. In 2016, she co-authored research on integrating humanities and social sciences into undergraduate medical education. She later co-edited the 2023 book Bioethics in Pakistan: Local Contexts, Local Cases.
Priorities for the Faculty’s Next Chapter
Dr Ghias said the Faculty would strengthen learner-centred education, interdisciplinary research, and partnerships.
“Together, we will advance the Faculty of Arts and Sciences as a diverse, dynamic, and innovative academic community where learner-centered education, interdisciplinary research, and meaningful partnerships empower ethical, pluralistic, and socially accountable leaders to strengthen society and contribute meaningfully to a more just world,” said Dr Ghias.
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Her early priorities include expanding academic programmes and creating a stronger research culture. She also plans to invest in faculty and student success, deepen partnerships, and improve governance.
The agenda aligns with FAS’s mission to prepare critical thinkers and ethical leaders for complex social challenges. AKU established the Faculty in September 2023 and enrolled its first students in a four-year Bachelor of Studies programme.
Building on the Founding Dean’s Work
The programme combines liberal arts education with social development, pluralism, and public service. Its current majors include Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Environmental Studies, Social Development Studies, and Philosophy, Politics and Economics.
AKU thanked Professor Lyon for establishing the Faculty and shaping its identity during its formative years. The University said his leadership created a strong base for the next phase of growth.
Dr Ghias now takes responsibility for expanding programmes, research, partnerships, and the Faculty’s wider academic impact. Her appointment also places an experienced scientist and educator at the centre of AKU’s effort to bridge disciplinary boundaries.
