Tenure Track Faculty 2025
Ahmad Abuelrub
Assistant Professor
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Applied Engineering & Technology
Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2016
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because of its strong academic reputation, inclusive environment, and commitment to student-centered teaching and interdisciplinary research. The welcoming faculty, excellent research infrastructure, and the vibrant community in Carbondale made SIU the ideal place for my career and family.
Weining Ai
Assistant Professor
College of Liberal Arts
School of Anthropology, Political Science, & Sociology
PhD in Political Science from Arizona State University
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because I believe my rigorous scholarship in international relations, extensive teaching experience in both international relations and research methodology, and strong commitment to collegiality make me an excellent fit for the Assistant Professor of Political Science position in the School of Anthropology, Political Science, and Sociology. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to research, teaching, student success, and service at SIU, and to make a meaningful impact on the broader university community.
Jeremy Alm
Professor and Director
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
PhD in Mathematics from Iowa State University
Why did you choose SIU: I wanted to come to SIU as Director of the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences because I saw an opportunity for growth and improvement in areas where I had extensive experience. After three years of working in the Dean's office in the College of Arts and Sciences at Lamar University, I am happy to be back in a disciplinary unit where mathematics is a part of my day-to-day work.
Kyle Bates
Assistant Professor
College of Arts & Media
School of Media Arts
MFA, Mills College
DMA, California Institute of the Arts
Why did you choose SIU: The School of Media Arts at SIU houses a vibrant and diverse artistic community. As a creative researcher who works with multiple forms of media, it is the perfect environment to explore and teach various forms of art and technology. The faculty I have met in the department have been knowledgeable, kind, and generous, and they all have very interesting and deep research and/or creative practices. SIU seems to be at a special place right now, a well-established University with a recent R1 designation is ripe with potential. The city of Carbondale also seems to have a great artistic community with lots of room to grow. I am excited to be part of SIU and the Arts scene in Carbondale during this fertile time. I hope to help foster this growth and contribute to the advancement and success of the University and artistic expression in Southern Illinois.
Brody Bluemel
School Director/Professor
College of Liberal Arts
School of Languages and Linguistics
PhD in Applied Linguistics & Asian Studies (Dual-Title) from Penn State University
Why did you choose SIU: I am thrilled to be joining Southern Illinois University as the new Director of the School of Languages and Linguistics. Initially, I was drawn to SIU by the clear potential within its programs and the opportunity to have a broader impact. However, what truly captivated me during my visit was the palpable energy and immense potential for growth I sensed within the School. This marks an incredibly exciting time for both the School and for me personally. In my initial meetings with the faculty, I was struck by the numerous opportunities that emerged through our discussions. The team was remarkably transparent about the challenges facing the School, but their focus on solutions and collective forward movement energized me and affirmed that SIU is where I was meant to be.
Renee Branum
Assistant Professor
College of Liberal Arts
School of Literature, Writing, and Digital Humanities
PhD in Creative Writing (Fiction) from the University of Cincinnati
MFA in Creative Writing (Creative Nonfiction), University of Montana
MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction), Iowa Writers' Workshop
Why did you choose SIU: Carbondale is my hometown. I grew up here and much of my family still lives in the area. I feel very lucky to have been offered a tenure-track position in a place where I can invest in the community that was so formative for me. Additionally, this opportunity to contribute to both graduate and undergraduate education and programming in creative writing is extremely exciting to me.
Szu-Wei Chen
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Health Sciences
Ph.D., New York University-New York, 2020
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because it offered the right opportunity at the right time in my career. The position aligns well with my professional strengths and interests, and I like the balance between teaching and research responsibilities. That balance is important to me as I continue to grow as a scholar while also contributing meaningfully to student learning.
Stephen D. Douglas
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Justice and Public Safety
Ph.D., Northeastern University, 2024
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU for a few different reasons. I was impressed by the degree of collegiality I observed among faculty in the School of Justice and Public Safety and excited by the potential for collaborating with such distinguished researchers. The values and principles exhibited by SIU are closely aligned with my own and I am keen to teach and mentor students in an environment that encourages personal growth as well as academic development. Finally, the beauty of SIU’s campus and surrounding region and the warmth of the local community majorly influenced the decision to move here with my family.
Emerson Eads
Assistant Professor
College of Arts & Media
School of Music
DMA, University of Notre Dame
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because I was inspired by the warmth and generosity of the faculty and staff, and deeply moved by the students’ singing, so full of expression and heart.
Marissa Ellermann
Assistant Professor
Library Affairs/Access
Master of Library Science and Master of Information Science, Indiana University Bloomington
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because it is both a research university and one that serves a diverse student population. Working with students and helping them achieve their goals is my primary motivator. Having earned my undergraduate degree from SIU in 2009, I know how valuable the services and education we provide are to our students’ future success.
Marie-Sophie Garcia-Heras
mariesophie.garciaheras@siu.edu
Assistant Professor
College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences
School of Biological Sciences
Ph.D., University of Cape Town, South Africa, 2017
Why did you choose SIU: People. Research. Nature. As soon as I started interacting with SIU members (faculty, staff, students) on campus, I felt very welcomed - everyone was just so nice and supportive! I liked the idea of working for an R1 Carnegie University, where I could build and develop a strong research lab and teach the future generations, while keeping the cozy-feeling of a medium-sized University. Finally, the campus and the town of Carbondale are surrounded by forests and lakes providing such an easy access to nature - what a jam! I look forward to this new adventure at SIU!
Caitlin Gossett
Assistant Professor
BA, Smith College
JD, Notre Dame Law School
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU Simmons Law School because of its small community that focuses on quality teaching and student engagement. While SIU Simmons is a small community, it is also very welcoming to new Salukis. I appreciate the value that SIU Simmons Law places on inclusiveness and faculty collaboration from all different practice areas and experiences. Law students get the benefit of learning from professors with a range of experiences and research interests. Just as mentoring new lawyers has been a core part of my practice as an attorney, meaningful connections with students have been one of the most rewarding parts of teaching law. When I visited campus, I was thrilled by how actively students engaged with faculty even outside of class time. It is wonderful to join a community that sees each student as an individual that has something to offer the legal community once they graduate.
Michael Grundler
Assistant Professor
College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences
School of Biological Sciences
Ph.D, University of Michigan, 2020
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because of its beautiful geographic location and because of the excellent research conducted by faculty in the School of Biological Sciences.
Laura Guengerich
Assistant Professor
Library Affairs (started Jan. 2025)
MS Library and Information Science, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, May 2024
MA Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, December 2006
BA Biology, St. Olaf College, May 2001
Why did you choose SIU: During my interviews, the team at SIU's Morris Library was warm and friendly. Both the place and the people demonstrated the type of positivity and support that I value in a workplace. Concern for mental health and well-being of students and colleagues are prioritized. Outside the library, SIUC is an established institution that is growing and anticipating changes in research and student well-being. This institution is a good fit for my interests.
Dustin Hoffman
Associate Professor
College of Liberal Arts
School of Literature, Writing, and Digital Humanities
PhD in English, Creative Writing Emphasis from Western Michigan University
MFA in Fiction from Bowling Green State University
Why did you choose SIU: I initially chose SIU Carbondale for its impressive MFA program in creative writing. This program is truly a gem and so deeply respected by writers across the country. Once I visited SIU Carbondale, I found even more to admire—the dedicated students, the welcoming and brilliant faculty members, the gorgeous campus. I am so honored to be joining this team.
Iris Holmes
Assistant Professor
College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences
School of Biological Sciences
Ph.D., University of Michigan, 2020
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because of the exciting research in the School of Biological Sciences. I was particularly interested in the strong connection between SIU and applied wildlife management done by the state of Illinois. I also loved the town and the surrounding natural areas!
Md Amzad Hossain
Assistant Professor
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Materials Engineering (MAME)
Ph.D., University of Texas at El Paso, 2020
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU Carbondale for its strong research focus, teaching excellence, and outstanding opportunities in engineering innovation, especially in Mechanical, Aerospace, and Materials Engineering.
Md Zahidul Islam
Assistant Professor
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering
Ph.D., New York University, 2025
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU Carbondale for several reasons. First, the School of ECBE offers a truly supportive research environment, where faculty and colleagues are not just peers but enthusiastic collaborators. I am excited by the school's strong ties to local power industries, particularly Ameren, which promise valuable real-world collaboration opportunities. Beyond academics, the surrounding natural beauty, including the Shawnee National Forest and the Gateway Arch area near St. Louis, makes this an inspiring place to live, work, and recharge.
Alvi Ataur Khalil
Assistant Professor
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Computing
Ph.D., Florida International University, 2025
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because of its strong commitment to research and teaching excellence, particularly in areas aligned with my expertise in cybersecurity and blockchain technologies. The university’s recent designation as a Carnegie R1 institution was especially inspiring, as it reflects SIU’s growing impact in research and innovation. The collaborative environment, supportive faculty, and emphasis on innovation make SIU an ideal place to grow as a scholar and contribute meaningfully to both students and the broader academic community.
Heekyung Lee
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Psychological & Behavioral Sciences
Ph.D., Michigan State University, 2021
Why did you choose SIU: The program that I am in has a nationwide reputation and a perfect place to raise a family.
Soo Jeong Lee
Assistant Professor
College of Business and Analytics School of Analytics, Finance, and Economics
Ph.D., Michigan State University, 2025
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because of its supportive research environment, dedicated faculty, and the great quality of life in Carbondale—with nearby hiking trails, horseback riding, and a beautiful natural landscape.
Holly Lewis
Professor / Director of CVeX
Professor of Philosophy, Director of CVeX
College of Liberal Arts
PhD in Philosophy, Arts, & Critical Theory from the European Graduate School
MFA in Fiction from New York University
Why did you choose SIU: The position seemed tailored to my research interests and my desire to expand and develop research in new technologies for CoLA faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion was an enormous factor. Conducting humanities-based VR and AI research at an open and inclusive university that values academic freedom was a long-term goal. I also really enjoy silo-decomposing, organizational work that supports my colleagues.
Lisa Malloy
Assistant Professor
College/School: School of Media Arts
MFA, University of Illinois at Chicago
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because my filmmaking has been rooted in Southern Illinois for years. I’ve worked with communities in Cairo and across the region, and I want to keep growing that work with students. As a first-gen grad, SIU’s mission of access matters to me. The School of Media Arts supports hybrid, place-based cinema, so SIU is the right home for my teaching, research, and creative practice.
Lillian R. Masek
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences
Ph.D., Temple University, 2021
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because it is an institution that balances excellence in teaching and excellence in research with a stated commitment to improving society through not only teaching and research but also more direct community outreach programs. I also felt that the School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences was a department from which I could learn a lot, in terms of both research and teaching, and I could also add to the diversity of theoretical perspectives already represented.
Mozammel Mia
Assistant Professor
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Applied Engineering & Technology
Ph.D., Imperial College London, 2023
Why did you choose SIU: My ambition to lead in advanced manufacturing science and engineering research led me to SIU, given its prominence in the field. I anticipate benefiting greatly from SIU's resources and expertise, and I'm committed to making substantial contributions through innovative research, ultimately benefiting both society and manufacturing industries.
Paige O'Neill
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences
Ph.D., University of Nebraska Medical Center, Munroe-Meyer Institute, 2021
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because of its strong reputation in my field of behavior analysis and its clear commitment to supporting faculty. The focus on faculty development, along with amazing resources available for teaching and research, made it clear that SIU is a place where I can thrive and contribute in meaningful ways. I was also drawn to my program director's thoughtful vision for the program, which aligns well with my own perspective on future directions for our field. I am excited to be starting this new chapter at SIU-C!
Lais Petri
To start Spring 2026Assistant Professor
College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences
School of Biological Sciences
Ph.D., University of Michigan, 2023
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because of its strong emphasis on research, teaching, and community engagement, all of which align with my commitment to impactful and applied ecological science. As a public research university with access to a variety of ecosystems and collaborative partners, SIU offers an ideal environment to advance my work in plant community and invasion ecologies while contributing to student success and regional conservation efforts.
Billy Ram
Assistant Professor
College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences
School of Agricultural Sciences
Ph.D., North Dakota State University, 2024
Why did you choose SIU: I chose to join Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) because of its immense potential for precision agriculture research and education. SIUC’s R1 ranking is a testament to the high-impact research and collaborative environment it offers. Plus, the beautiful campus lake and Shawnee National Forest made my decision much easier. I am eager to contribute to SIUC's goals and establish a world-class precision agriculture program for undergraduate and graduate students. There are great things happening at SIUC and I am happy to be here. Go Salukis!
Tom Reichert
Assistant Professor
Simmons Law School
B.S., M.Eng., MBA, JD, Southern Illinois University
Why did you choose SIU: The truth is, SIU chose me, over and over again. I earned both my engineering degrees, my MBA, and my JD from SIU, and every time I asked the university for more, it said yes - enthusiastically. To be able to give back, to have the chance to help provide that same opportunity to others through this university that has given me so much, fills me with tremendous pride. SIU has been instrumental in shaping my career and life, and I'm honored to now contribute to its mission from the faculty side.
Kathryn Roosevelt
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Human Sciences
Ph.D., North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, 2023
Why did you choose SIU: SIU is home, I have attended many other universities, but no other institution has been as welcoming and ever present in my life as SIU, further it is where my passion for social work began and will be where my passion continues and blossoms into more!
Khaled Mohammed Saifuddin
khaledmohammed.saifuddin@siu.edu
Assistant Professor
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Computing
Ph.D., Georgia State University, 2024
Why did you choose SIU: I chose Southern Illinois University (SIU) because it truly feels like the right place to grow as both a researcher and an educator. The School of Computing’s focus on innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact really stood out to me. As someone who works at the intersection of AI and data science, I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute to a community that values both foundational research and practical applications. SIU’s R1 designation and strong research culture were also major draws. It’s clear the university is serious about supporting cutting-edge work, and I’m looking forward to being part of that. On top of that, the ABET-accredited programs and the School’s commitment to student success made it clear that this is a place where I can make a meaningful contribution-both in the classroom and in the research lab.
Sayed Chhattan Shah
Assistant Professor
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Computing
Ph.D., Korea University, 2012
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIUC because it is a nationally ranked public research university with a strong commitment to innovative research and excellence in teaching and scholarship. The university offers an outstanding environment for both research and teaching, providing the resources, collaborative opportunities, and institutional support necessary to advance my work in distributed systems and healthcare technologies.
Travis R. Smith
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences
Ph.D., Southern Illinois University- Carbondale, 2014
Why did you choose SIU: It is exciting to work at an advanced degree granting institution. The School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences is generous in how it supports research (animal research in my case). The balanced expectations of teaching and research are very fair.
Maria Aparcero Suero
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences
Ph.D., Fordham University, 2023
Why did you choose SIU: I chose to join SIU because of its strong commitment to public service, interdisciplinary collaboration, and academic excellence. With a passion for advancing equitable and culturally responsive mental health practices, I was especially drawn to the opportunity to integrate faculty and clinical work while helping expand forensic psychology services and training in the region.
Andrew J. Tillman
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences School of Automotive
M.S., Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, anticipated 2025
Why did you choose SIU: The reputation and uniqueness of the 4-year degree in Automotive Technology.
Joseph Wager
Assistant Professor
PhD, Iberian and Latin American Cultures (Stanford University)
MA, Estudios literarios (Universidad Nacional de Colombia)
BA, Rhetoric (UC Berkeley)
Why did you choose SIU: I’m proud to join one of the few institutions classified as both a Research 1 site and an Opportunity College and University. This means SIU is the perfect place to continue my research and to learn from - and with - a new generation of students at a public university that promotes social mobility. At SIU, I’m excited about the opportunities for growth alongside the dedicated team in Languages and Linguistics. I’ll be able to combine my love of teaching Spanish-language courses, specialized courses aligned with my research platform, and broader literature and culture courses. Plus, outdoor activities such as Ferne Clyffe and Giant City, combined with tons of live music and nearby peach smoothies, don’t hurt.
Cherie Watson
Assistant Professor
Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MSLIS)
Why did you choose SIU: I've chosen SIU a number of times—first as an undergrad, then as a non-tenure track librarian leading Morris Library’s acquisitions unit, and later in subsequent NTT outreach and instruction roles. Library outreach holds special meaning for me, as academic libraries have made such a difference in my personal and educational journey. I take great pride in SIU and in supporting my fellow and future Salukis.
Amanda Weidhuner
Assistant Professor
College of Agriculture, Life, & Physical Sciences
School of Forestry & Horticulture
B.S.; SIUC; 2015
M.S.; SIUC; 2018
Ph.D.; SIUC; 2021
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU for its community, research focus, and proximity to a large horticultural industry.
Kristin Wolek
kristin.wolek@siu.eduSimmons School of Law
J.D., M.L.I.S, University of Arizona
Why did you choose SIU: I chose SIU because of the strong sense of community in the university and in Carbondale.
Chuxiong Wu
Assistant Professor
College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics
School of Computing
Ph.D., George Mason University, 2025
Why did you choose SIU: SIU has a long-standing academic tradition and is experiencing continued growth under strong leadership. The collaborative and supportive environment within the School of Computing, the College, and the University aligns well with my values as a researcher and educator. SIU offers a cybersecurity program that complements my research interests and provides opportunities to attract and mentor students. Additionally, the beautiful natural surroundings and access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing make the location especially appealing.
Yang "David" Yang
Assistant Professor
College of Business and Analytics
School of Analytics, Finance, and Economics
Doctor of Philosophy, Finance
Why did you choose SIU: SIU offers the research resources I need, a balanced teaching load, and a mission that matches my commitment to mentoring first-generation students in a supportive community.
Haewon Yoon
Assistant Professor
College of Health & Human Sciences
School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences
Ph.D., Boston College, 2018
Why did you choose SIU: The mix of research opportunities and quality of life checked all my boxes.