School of Nursing Dean Appointed to Prestigious NIH Council

The Council of Councils provides guidance on rising public health challenges, emerging scientific opportunities, and areas of knowledge gaps.

(Ann Arbor, MI) University of Michigan School of Nursing (UMSN) Dean Patricia Hurn, PhD, RN, has been appointed to the National Institutes of Health Council of Councils. Dr. Hurn will bring her expertise in basic science and neuroscience to the council of nearly 30 members primarily from a variety of health care and science disciplines including medicine, genetics, psychiatry, and biology. Additional council members represent areas such as diversity, law, and community engagement.

The Council of Councils advises the NIH Director on policies and activities related to planning and strategic initiatives of the Division of Program Coordination, Planning and Strategic Initiatives. The council advises on trans-NIH collaborations which take place in all disease areas, and basic translational and clinical research. These collaborations build on the focus areas of individual centers to create solutions to complex problems.

“I look forward to providing the guidance that will support the NIH to continue its legacy of outstanding research and training in all areas linked to the health of our nation,” says Dr. Hurn. She will serve a five-year term.

Dr. Hurn brings extensive experience in research and interdisciplinary collaboration to her new role. Prior to joining UMSN in August, 2016, she served as the chief health research officer for the University of Texas System in her position as vice chancellor for research and innovation. Her research centers on cellular and molecular mechanisms of experimental stroke and cerebrovascular disease with a focus on gender differences in recovery from brain injuries.

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