Shohreh Amini has been appointed interim dean of the College of Science and Technology (CST). Amini has been at Temple University for more than 25 years, serving in leadership roles that span teaching, research and service. She is a professor in the Department of Biology at CST and also holds an appointment at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine.

“STEM fields are central to Temple's growth, driving innovation, workforce development and societal impact,” said Amini, whose term as interim dean began on June 1. “As we look to the future, I am committed to fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration across Temple's schools and colleges on Main Campus, the Health Sciences Center and beyond. New and expanded partnerships create new opportunities to address complex challenges that no single discipline can solve alone.”

Amini is a molecular virologist whose research concentrates on HIV-1-induced neurological dysfunctions. She has served as principal investigator or co-investigator on numerous NIH-funded projects, including on multiple grants that support graduate and undergraduate training and mentorship. A tireless advocate for student success, she has taught and mentored generations of students at Temple, and she has been recognized with the Great Teacher Award, the Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching, the Paul W. Eberman Faculty Research Award and the Faculty Senate Outstanding Faculty Service Award.

During her time at CST, Amini has served as chair of the Department of Biology, associate dean for research and graduate programs, and associate dean for the professional science master’s programs. She serves on multiple editorial boards, including the Journal of NeuroVirology, and is a member of six national and international academic and professional organizations. She has continuously served as a reviewer on NIH study sections, which included research, training and center grants. Her service on college, school and university committees, including president of the Faculty Senate, demonstrates her sustained commitment to faculty governance, academic policy and student success.

"I am honored to serve as interim dean of the College of Science and Technology at a time when scientific discovery and innovation are more important than ever,” said Amini. “CST's strength lies in the extraordinary dedication of our faculty and staff whose work advances knowledge and improves lives in our community and around the world. I'm most excited about meeting and interacting with more CST students—beyond my area of the biological sciences—and supporting their efforts in the classroom, the lab and in the field."

Miguel Mostafá, who joined CST in the fall of 2023, stepped down as dean at the end of the spring 2026 semester. During his time at Temple, Mostafá was a strong advocate for student success, research and service to the community. He is now dean of the School of Science and Engineering at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

“I am grateful to the many CST faculty and staff who provided input into the choice of an interim dean, and grateful that Shohreh has agreed to serve during this time of transition,” said David Boardman, Temple’s interim provost. “Over this past year, it has been a joy getting to know her better and working together to advance Temple’s mission. Her collegiality and steadfast leadership will serve the CST faculty, students, staff and alumni well.”