NSM Strategic Plan

David W. Hyndman, PhD
Dean, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Francis S. & Maurine G. Johnson Distinguished University Chair

Message from the Dean

It is with great pride and deep gratitude that I share our new Strategic Plan: an ambitious, thoughtful, and forward-looking vision for the future of the School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics at UT Dallas.

This plan is a reflection of who we are, what we value, and where we’re headed together. It’s about creating a space where our students, faculty, and staff feel seen, supported, and inspired.

At NSM, we believe science and education must rise to meet the challenges of our changing world. That’s why this plan centers on building a stronger community, deepening research excellence, enriching the student experience, and expanding our reach and impact well beyond campus.

I am especially proud of the way this plan was shaped—through listening, reflection, and collaboration across every department in our school. It represents not just aspirations, but our collective determination to grow and lead with purpose.

Thank you for all you do, and for all we will do together.

Our Vision

To create a thriving planet through scientific discovery, where students, faculty, and staff collaborate to advance knowledge and solve global challenges.

Our Mission

To inspire curiosity and innovation across all levels of education and research, empowering students, faculty, and staff to drive groundbreaking discoveries that benefit society and the planet.

Key Themes

Create a Thriving Workplace

We will develop an inclusive, supportive, and innovative environment where students, all faculty and staff feel valued, engaged, and empowered to excel.

Promote a culture of excellence

Offer continuous professional development opportunities and faculty/staff leadership training programs.

Enhance work-life balance

Introduce flexible work schedules and well-being initiatives for all members of the NSM community.

Build an engaged and supportive culture

Implement regular feedback channels, mentorship programs, and recognition awards for students, faculty, and staff.

Enrich the Student Experience

We aim to provide students with opportunities to develop as scientists, leaders, and global citizens by connecting them to research, industry, and real-world challenges.

Standardize technological and computer literacy

Revise the curriculum to integrate tech literacy and problem-solving skills from the first year through to graduation.

Connect students to research through expanded industry connections

Create structured internship programs and undergraduate research projects linked to faculty research initiatives.

Develop career pathways beyond traditional STEM roles

Introduce professional development workshops, career coaching, and cross-industry internships.

Expand laboratory space and facilities

Complete the renovation of current labs and secure funding for new interdisciplinary research spaces.

Reimagine the first-year experience

Design a comprehensive freshman curriculum that integrates technology, sustainability, and collaborative problem-solving.

Enhance the Research Enterprise

Our research mission is to lead global scientific advancements by attracting top talent, securing funding, and providing state-of-the-art resources to facilitate innovation.

Recruit Cluster Hires within NSM and Across Schools

Develop research clusters in emerging fields like data science, climate science, and bioengineering.

Expand external research funding

Increase efforts to apply for federal and private grants, and develop new partnerships with industry.

Grow tenure-track faculty

Implement a targeted recruitment strategy to hire faculty with expertise in key areas of global scientific importance.

Upgrade and expand NSM research facilities

Complete the construction of new lab spaces and equip them with state-of-the-art technology.

Achieve Financial Stability

To support our mission and ensure the sustainability of NSM, we will diversify revenue sources and strengthen financial partnerships.

Develop new degree programs and certificates

Launch innovative programs aligned with emerging industry needs, including data science, sustainability studies, and applied mathematics.

Increase online and hybrid courses

Expand online course offerings to reach a broader audience and generate additional revenue streams.

Boost alumni engagement and endowments

Launch a targeted alumni fundraising campaign to support scholarships and faculty research.

Create student ambassador programs

Foster a community of student ambassadors who promote NSM to prospective students and raise awareness in the broader community.

Expand the Influence of NSM

We will amplify the impact of NSM by increasing our presence in academic, industry, and community circles through strategic partnerships and outreach initiatives.

Engage with industry

Create a speaker series, internship programs, and corporate partnerships to connect students and faculty with industry leaders.

Collaborate with other universities

Build relationships with local and global universities to create joint research programs, share resources, and collaborate on interdisciplinary challenges.

Strengthen community outreach

Partner with local high schools, community organizations, and government agencies to inspire and engage the next generation of scientists.

Host professional conferences and events

Bring top scientific minds to NSM to foster collaboration and enhance our national and global reputation.