Bjorkman received his master’s in epidemiology from Harvard University, and served as the dean of the University of Utah’s Medical School before making his way to FAU.

According to President Mary Jane Saunders, it was his “impressive background and prior contributions” to the field that made him a fit for the job.

“His keen understanding of medical education today, as well as his strategic vision for the future of the College will help to build FAU’s reputation in the field of medicine and science,” she said in the press release.

It’s now Bjorkman’s job to establish FAU’s medical school as a “nationally recognized and world-class medical institution.”

The College of Medicine’s website explains that he will have to support their mission to produce physicians and scientists who can meet Florida’s biomedical research needs. Along with that, he is expected to build relationships with other colleges and health care facilities in the area, and participate in discussions about South Florida’s health care issues.

“I am very pleased that Dr. Bjorkman will be joining us as the next dean of FAU’s College of Medicine,” said FAU Provost Brenda Claiborne, in the press release. “He has the skills and experience to foster excellence in instruction and research in the College, and to build long-lasting partnerships with the community.”

The UP will follow up with Bjorkman when he officially begins his term at FAU in January.