The Graduate School is pleased to announce that Rebecca M. Howell, PhD, has been elected as the next faculty president-elect by the Graduate School faculty. She will serve in this role until September 1, 2025, at which time she will begin her term as faculty president, succeeding current Faculty President Shane Cunha, PhD. 

Howell is stepping into this leadership role following the early departure of Francesca Cole, PhD, who left the position March 1, when she was appointed associate dean for academic affairs at the Graduate School. 

“Howell is an outstanding scientist and mentor whose leadership in radiation physics and survivorship research has made a significant impact in her field,” said Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs Jeffrey Frost, PhD. “She brings that same level of dedication and thoughtfulness to her work with students and faculty. We’re fortunate to have her in this important role.” 

An accomplished scientist and educator, Howell is a tenured professor in the Department of Radiation Physics at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and has been a member of the Graduate School faculty since 2008. She also serves as director of the MD Anderson Late Effects Group, which includes a team of 16 staff and one graduate student, and two post-doctoral fellows. Her lab conducts impactful research on radiation therapy-related late effects among childhood cancer survivors, with a focus on developing risk prediction models that inform treatment planning for newly diagnosed children and enhance care for long-term survivors. 

As faculty president-elect, Howell will serve as a vital liaison between Graduate School faculty and leadership, helping to guide academic policies and support a collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking academic environment. 

“I’m honored to have been elected by my colleagues to serve as faculty president-elect,” said Howell. “The Graduate School faculty community is incredibly dedicated and collaborative, and I look forward to representing their voices and supporting the continued growth of our academic programs. I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to help strengthen the mentorship, education, and research environments that make the school such a special place for both faculty and students.” 

Beyond her research, Howell is a key figure in graduate education. As director of the Medical Physics Program, she plays an active role in all aspects of the program with service on steering, admissions, and curriculum committees. She is also a dedicated mentor and educator, having served on 24 advisory committees and chaired nine. Her trainees regularly publish in top-tier journals and present at national and international meetings, advancing to medical physics residencies, and successful clinical and academic careers.