With a career that bridges cutting-edge innovation and global impact, Samir Iqbal has joined Grand Valley State University’s College of Computing as the associate dean of Research. 

A nanotechnology pioneer, biomedical engineer, and former leader at the National Science Foundation (NSF), Iqbal brings a deep commitment to interdisciplinary research, innovation ecosystems and student mentorship.

As a program director at the NSF, he led initiatives in Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR), open-source ecosystems and industry-university partnerships. Iqbal managed a portfolio of $170 million across a number of NSF programs focused on advancing technology translation, small business innovation, academic–industry partnerships and open-source ecosystems. 

His academic work spans more than $5 million in funded research projects, and he has earned international recognition, including being named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry and serving as a Distinguished Lecturer for the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

"Iqbal’s appointment is a major step forward in advancing our strategic vision for the College of Computing,” said Dean Marouane Kessentini. “His leadership will help us accelerate high-impact research, strengthen our industry and federal partnerships, and expand opportunities for students to engage in meaningful, hands-on innovation. He brings the experience and vision we need to position GVSU as a national leader in applied computing research and workforce development.”

Iqbal’s current research focuses on early cancer diagnostics, using artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze biomarkers at the intersection of engineered devices and living systems. He has contributed extensively to open-source software development and remains passionate about making research tools and data more accessible to the public. 

Throughout his career, Iqbal has mentored students who have entered careers with tech corporations like Intel, and he has co-founded startups translating research into real-world applications. He is particularly passionate about working with startups and students interested in health care innovation and envisions a strong potential for collaboration with regional health institutions and growing the local tech economy.

As associate dean, Iqbal plans to enhance the college’s research capacity through organic growth. 

“I’m excited to build on the college’s momentum,” Iqbal said. “Research should create opportunities for students, faculty and the community.”