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Caltech Appoints Jayawardhana as President: Ensuring Continuity

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  Published in Science and Technology on Thursday, January 15th 2026 at 0:54 GMT by The New York Times

Continuity and Vision: Why Jayawardhana?

The Board of Trustees' decision to appoint Jayawardhana isn't a surprising one for those familiar with the inner workings of Caltech. His ascent to the presidency reflects a deliberate strategy to ensure continuity and maintain the institute's esteemed position within the global academic landscape. The trustees emphasized their unwavering confidence in Jayawardhana's vision, emphasizing his profound understanding of Caltech's core values and his dedication to cultivating a dynamic and pioneering research ecosystem. This internal promotion signals a commitment to leveraging existing strengths and building upon established foundations, rather than introducing disruptive change.

"Kiven embodies the spirit of Caltech," stated a statement released by the Board. "His deep understanding of our institution's culture, coupled with his forward-thinking ideas for the future, makes him the ideal candidate to lead us into a new era of discovery and innovation."

Rosenbaum's Legacy and the Transition Period

Thomas Rosenbaum's tenure as president, spanning from 2018, has been characterized by significant advancements in research and infrastructure. While the details of his departure haven't been publicly elaborated upon, his departure allows for a smooth transition period, ensuring continuity of leadership and allowing Jayawardhana to integrate seamlessly into the role. Rosenbaum will remain in place until the end of February 2026, providing valuable guidance and support to his successor.

Jayawardhana's Impact as Provost: A Foundation for the Future

Jayawardhana's previous role as Provost has already left an indelible mark on Caltech. His time in the position has been defined by a series of impactful initiatives. Most notably, he spearheaded efforts to fortify the institute's academic programs, recognizing the importance of investing in the next generation of scientists and engineers. Furthermore, Jayawardhana has been a champion for diversity and inclusion, a critical priority for many institutions navigating evolving social landscapes. Caltech has publicly committed to increasing representation among its faculty, staff, and student body, and Jayawardhana's leadership in this area has been instrumental in driving progress.

Beyond internal improvements, Jayawardhana has demonstrated a keen understanding of the importance of collaboration. He has been actively involved in expanding Caltech's partnerships with other leading academic institutions and key industries. These collaborations are vital for accessing cutting-edge research, attracting talent, and translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world applications. Expect to see this focus on strategic partnerships continue and likely expand under his presidency.

Looking Ahead: Key Priorities for the New President

As Jayawardhana prepares to assume the presidency, several key areas are expected to receive his immediate attention. The ongoing evolution of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on scientific research will undoubtedly be a central focus. Caltech's leadership in areas like quantum computing and space exploration will require continued investment and strategic guidance. Furthermore, the increasingly complex funding landscape for scientific research will necessitate a proactive and collaborative approach to securing resources. Finally, the pressure to address climate change and its impacts will likely shape many of Caltech's future research initiatives.

The appointment of Kiven Jayawardhana to the presidency of Caltech represents a moment of stability and forward momentum for the institution. His deep understanding of Caltech's values, coupled with his proven leadership skills, position him well to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and to ensure Caltech remains at the forefront of scientific discovery.