George W. Smith
George W. Smith became Charles-Sander Dean of the College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences on August 1, 2026. Before joining the University of Arizona faculty, Dr. Smith served as senior associate dean for research in Michigan State University's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and director of AgBioResearch, MSU’s statewide agricultural experiment station. In these roles, he provided strategic direction and administrative oversight for a research enterprise supporting more than 300 scientists across seven colleges, an annual budget exceeding $140 million, and extensive infrastructure.
As chair of agInnovation, the organization representing the nation's state experiment stations, Dr. Smith led strategic planning efforts focused on climate resilience, water resources, sustainable food systems, and preparing the future workforce.
An internationally recognized reproductive physiologist, his research has focused on the biological mechanisms controlling ovarian function, oocyte quality, and early embryonic development in cattle. His discoveries have advanced understanding of reproductive biology in livestock while providing important insights applicable to human reproductive medicine.
Over the course of his academic career, Dr. Smith authored more than 140 peer-reviewed journal articles and numerous book chapters. His research program received continuous funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Institutes of Health for more than two decades.
Raised on a livestock farm in Idaho, Dr. Smith developed an early appreciation for the vital role agriculture plays in strengthening communities and improving lives. That perspective has shaped a career dedicated to advancing the mission of land-grant universities through research, education, and public engagement. He earned his bachelor's degree in animal science from the University of Idaho and his master's and doctoral degrees in animal science from the University of Missouri.
Full Bio: https://cales.arizona.edu/about/george-w-smith-biography
Contact
Sylvia Ramirez
sramirez@arizona.edu / 520-621-0094