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Caltech Names New President: K. Ravi-Mathavan Jayawardhana

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  Published in Science and Technology on Tuesday, January 13th 2026 at 16:54 GMT by The New York Times

Pasadena, CA - January 13, 2026 - Caltech has announced the appointment of K. Ravi-Mathavan Jayawardhana as its next president, signaling a new chapter for the prestigious institution as it tackles ambitious research goals and navigates a rapidly changing higher education landscape. The selection, formally announced Monday by the Caltech Board of Trustees, marks the transition from the decade-long leadership of Thomas Rosenbaum, who previously announced his retirement.

Jayawardhana's arrival, slated for July 1, 2026, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Currently serving as Provost and Senior Vice President at Singapore Management University, he possesses a formidable combination of academic expertise, administrative acumen, and a proven track record in international collaboration. His prior association with Caltech as a faculty member further cements his understanding of the institute's unique culture and rigorous standards. Holding a Ph.D. in optical sciences from the University of Arizona, Jayawardhana is widely recognized as a leading authority in his field.

Robert J. Widmann, Chair of the Caltech Board of Trustees, expressed immense confidence in the incoming president. "Ravi is an extraordinary leader with a deep understanding of Caltech's mission and values," Widmann stated. "His experience in academia, administration, and global engagement will be invaluable as we continue to advance Caltech's scientific enterprise and shape the future of higher education." This sentiment underscores the board's belief that Jayawardhana is uniquely positioned to guide Caltech through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

A Pivotal Moment for Caltech

The transition in leadership occurs at a particularly critical juncture for Caltech. The institution stands at the precipice of several groundbreaking research initiatives, spanning fields from astrophysics and planetary science to biotechnology and artificial intelligence. These ventures, often requiring substantial investment and interdisciplinary collaboration, are central to Caltech's mission of pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. Simultaneously, Caltech, like many institutions of higher learning, faces a complex fundraising environment. Securing the necessary resources to sustain these ambitious programs and maintain Caltech's world-class faculty and facilities will be a key priority for Jayawardhana.

Furthermore, the broader landscape of higher education is undergoing a period of significant transformation. Issues such as affordability, accessibility, and the evolving role of technology in learning are reshaping the priorities of institutions globally. Jayawardhana's experience, particularly his international leadership at Singapore Management University, suggests a preparedness to navigate these shifts and adapt Caltech's strategies to remain a leader in innovation.

Rosenbaum's Legacy and the Transition Period

Thomas Rosenbaum's decade-long presidency leaves a significant legacy of expansion and innovation at Caltech. Under his leadership, the institute has strengthened its research capabilities, fostered a more diverse and inclusive community, and expanded its global partnerships. His departure marks the end of an era, but he will remain in his role until June 30, 2026, ensuring a smooth and collaborative transition of leadership. This overlap period provides Jayawardhana with the opportunity to familiarize himself with ongoing projects, key personnel, and the nuances of Caltech's operations, setting the stage for a successful tenure.

Looking Ahead: Expectations for Jayawardhana's Leadership

As Caltech looks to the future, expectations for Jayawardhana's leadership are high. Beyond maintaining Caltech's established strengths, stakeholders anticipate that he will champion initiatives that further integrate technological advancements into research and education, strengthen ties with industry partners, and cultivate a culture of innovation and collaboration. His proven ability to bridge academia and the practical application of scientific breakthroughs positions him well to achieve these goals. The appointment of Jayawardhana signals Caltech's commitment to continued growth, discovery, and its enduring influence on the global scientific community.