Kansas University Medical Center has named a new dean of its School of Health Professions. Abiodun Akinwuntan will start the job on Jan. 18, 2016, KU announced Thursday.

Akinwuntan currently is associate dean for research in the College of Allied Health Sciences and professor of physical therapy, ophthalmology and neurology at Georgia Regents University in Augusta, Ga., where’s he’s worked since 2005. Previously, Akinwuntan was a senior lecturer at the University of East London and a doctoral research assistant at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium.

“Dr. Akinwuntan brings with him a rich history of international experience and training,” Doug Girod, executive vice chancellor for KU Medical Center, said in a news release. “He has experienced success as a highly collaborative researcher within various departments and schools, and we look forward to benefitting from his unique skill set.”

Abiodun Akinwuntan

Akinwuntan’s research specialty involves helping people with neurological impairment, and he also recently was selected to serve on the peer review committee for Fulbright grant applications to West and Central Africa, as well as being a former Fulbright winner himself. He earned his undergraduate degree in Nigeria and advanced degrees in Europe.

Akinwuntan said in the news release it was a privilege to lead the School of Health Professions. “My interactions with the faculty and staff of the school during the interview process convinced me that I will be working with a vibrant and successful team.”

Akinwuntan succeeds Karen Miller, who was dean of Health Professions from 1996 until June 2015. John Ferraro will continue as interim dean until Akinwuntan arrives.