Geeta K. Swamy, a prominent leader in obstetrics and gynecology, has been appointed as the dean of Boston University’s Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, effective January 1, 2027. Her extensive experience in clinical and research leadership is expected to enhance collaboration between the university and Boston Medical Center.
Boston, MA – Boston University has announced the appointment of Geeta K. Swamy as the new dean of its Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, set to take effect on January 1, 2027. Swamy, a renowned researcher and academic leader from Duke University School of Medicine, brings over two decades of experience in clinical care, research, and academic administration to her new role. This strategic appointment is seen as a critical step in strengthening the partnership between Boston University and the Boston Medical Center Health System.
Swamy’s Professional Journey
Geeta K. Swamy has held various prestigious positions during her 22-year tenure at Duke University, including the Haywood Brown, MD Distinguished Professor of Women’s Health and associate vice president for Research. Furthermore, she has served as the executive vice dean for Clinical Sciences and Research Administration, which highlights her comprehensive expertise in navigating the complexities of academic medicine.
Throughout her career, Swamy has been instrumental in advancing clinical research and regulatory oversight within the medical field. She directed the Duke Perinatal Research Center and led initiatives aimed at promoting scientific integrity and improving clinical operations across the institution. “Her experience working across a university, medical school, and health system will be invaluable as our institutions deepen their collaboration and strengthen the connections among research, medical education, and patient care,” stated a Boston University press release announcing her appointment.
Strategic Timing and Funding Initiatives
Swamy’s arrival at Boston University coincides with a pivotal moment for the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, particularly in light of recent funding achievements. Researchers at the university have secured millions of dollars for ongoing work related to the Framingham Heart Study, a significant epidemiological study in cardiovascular health, and have received a Massachusetts Life Sciences Center grant aimed at addressing underfunded women’s health conditions.
“Geeta’s appointment comes at an ideal moment for the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine,” the Boston University press release noted. “Her experience running a major research organization and advancing operations to strengthen support for research will serve the school and our University well.” This funding momentum aligns with the larger goals of the institution to enhance research capabilities and expand its impact within the community.
Reinforcing Collaboration with Boston Medical Center
In early 2025, Boston University launched an initiative to revitalize its partnership with the Boston Medical Center Health System. Leaders from both institutions have worked jointly to identify shared goals, dismantle structural barriers to collaboration, and develop a unified vision to enhance research, train future medical professionals, and deliver essential healthcare services to Boston’s underserved populations.
Swamy’s vast experience in aligning the goals of hospitals and medical schools is expected to be a crucial asset in this partnership. As dean, she will report directly to both the president and the provost of Boston University, overseeing the medical school’s educational and research missions while providing support to faculty, staff, and students. “With Geeta [Swamy] as dean, we are confident the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center Health System, and Boston University will build upon our strengths and extend our impact across our city and far beyond,” expressed university officials in the announcement.
Vision for the Future
In her remarks regarding her appointment, Swamy articulated her passion for connecting the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine more deeply with the broader university ecosystem. “What inspired me about this role was the opportunity to connect the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine more deeply to the university through interdisciplinary discovery, to Boston Medical Center through our shared mission, and to the communities of Boston through a commitment to improving health for all,” she stated.
Swamy is not only a prominent academic leader but also a practicing obstetrician-gynecologist and maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Her research focuses on significant areas like perinatal infections, maternal immunization, and complications during pregnancy. With over 200 publications to her credit, Swamy has led numerous studies funded by esteemed institutions, including the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Furthermore, she serves as an investigator with Duke’s Vaccine and Trials Unit, further solidifying her expertise in her field.
Academic Credentials
Swamy’s academic journey reflects her commitment to public health and medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree in public health and biostatistics, followed by her medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her residency in obstetrics and gynecology was completed at the University of Pittsburgh, and she furthered her education through a fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine at Duke University. This extensive educational background, combined with her leadership experience, positions her to effectively guide the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine into a new era of growth and collaboration.
In conclusion, Geeta K. Swamy’s appointment as dean is poised to usher in a new chapter for the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, focusing on collaboration, research innovation, and enhanced community health initiatives. As Boston University and Boston Medical Center continue to strengthen their partnership, Swamy’s leadership will play a vital role in shaping the future of medical education and healthcare delivery in Boston.
