Dr. Jochen Koenemann, an expert in combinatorial optimization, to serve as 13th dean
Dr. Jochen Koenemann will become the 13th dean of the University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Mathematics. The appointment is for a five-year term, effective July 1, 2025.
The appointment was strongly supported by faculty and staff and has been approved by the University’s Board of Governors and Senate.
A highly respected researcher, Dr. Koenemann’s work lies at the intersection of theoretical computer science and operations research, focusing on optimization and its real-world applications. His work has addressed a wide range of complex problems across various domains. Notably, in collaboration with Professor Ricardo Fukasawa, he developed algorithms and planning tools that have been used to support life-saving cranial surgeries on children at SickKids Hospital in Toronto.
“Professor Koenemann’s expertise aligns closely with several areas of existing strength within the Faculty of Mathematics and positions him well to contribute to emerging opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement and innovation,” said James Rush, vice-president academic and provost at Waterloo. “His close collaboration with external partners will help to bolster the Faculty’s connections across industries, showcasing the transformative role that mathematics plays in society.”
Dr. Jochen Koenemann has been appointed as the next dean of the Faculty of Mathematics, effective July 1, 2025.
Professor Koenemann completed his Master of Science in Computer Science at the University of Saarbrücken in Germany and earned his Ph.D. in Algorithms, Combinatorics, and Optimization from Carnegie Mellon University. He joined Waterloo’s Department of Combinatorics and Optimization in 2003 and was promoted to full Professor in 2013.
He went on to serve as Waterloo’s associate chair for Undergraduate Affairs in the Department of Combinatorics and Optimization for four years and as chair of the Department of Combinatorics and Optimization for six years, giving him the insights needed to effectively lead a diverse, world-class Faculty.
“Universities face real uncertainty, but at Waterloo I see exciting opportunities,” Koenemann said. “As the only Faculty of Mathematics in North America, we are uniquely equipped to drive innovative, interdisciplinary solutions to pressing global challenges. I look forward to working with our community to shape the path ahead.”
In addition to his academic achievements, Professor Koenemann brings valuable industry experience. Over the past five years, he has collaborated with Amazon, applying advanced optimization techniques to improve the efficiency and sustainability of their delivery network.
Professor Koenemann will succeed Dr. Mark Giesbrecht, who has served as dean since July 1, 2020.
Waterloo’s Faculty of Mathematics is home to the Departments of Applied Mathematics, Combinatorics and Optimization, Pure Mathematics, Statistics & Actuarial Science, and the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science. The Faculty offers undergraduate and graduate programs as well as interdisciplinary degrees in areas including Computational Mathematics, Data Science, and Mathematics Business and Accounting.
