Kimberly Ogden

Dr. Kimberly L. Ogden currently serves as Craig M. Berge Interim Dean of the College of Engineering at the University of Arizona. She also holds a faculty appointment as Professor in the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering (ChEE). Previously, she served as the ChEE Department Chair and Interim Vice President for Research at the University of Arizona. Throughout her career, Ogden has championed student success, faculty development, interdisciplinary collaboration, research excellence, and innovation in engineering education and research. 

An internationally recognized scholar in chemical and environmental engineering, Ogden's research focuses on sustainable bioeconomies, renewable energy, biofuels, water resources, and agricultural systems for arid and semi-arid regions. She has led numerous large-scale research initiatives, including the USDA-funded Sustainable Bioeconomy for Arid Regions (SBAR) Center, a $15 million multi-institutional partnership involving universities, industry, and community stakeholders. Her work has produced more than 100 publications and patents and has contributed significantly to advances in algae-based biofuels, sustainable agriculture, and bioproduct development. 

Ogden has provided leadership at the national level through numerous professional and advisory roles. She served as President of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), one of the world's leading engineering professional societies, and on the Executive Committee of ABET's Engineering Accreditation Commission. She has also advised federal agencies on bioenergy and bioeconomy initiatives, including appointments to the Biomass Research and Development Technical Advisory Committee and leadership of a national workshop that informed federal strategy for resilient biomass supply chains and the U.S. bioeconomy. 

A dedicated educator and mentor, Ogden has supported the success of students, faculty, and staff throughout her career while helping secure major research investments and expanding opportunities for workforce development and community engagement. Her leadership and service have been recognized through numerous honors, including election as an AIChE Fellow, the USDA NIFA Partnership Award, and the University of Arizona's 2025 Distinguished Department Head Award. 

Ogden earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and both her Master of Science and Ph.D. degrees in Chemical Engineering from the University of Colorado. She completed postdoctoral research at Los Alamos National Laboratory before joining the University of Arizona faculty in 1992.