Diniz Behn, a mathematical biologist, named inaugural Joe and Jane Gray University Chair
Cecilia Diniz Behn, PhD, professor in applied mathematics and statistics at Mines, has been named the inaugural Joe and Jane Gray University Chair. A university chair is the highest level of distinction a Mines faculty member can hold.
Diniz Behn is an expert in the field of mathematical biology, which uses advanced mathematics to solve complex biological problems. She’s known for her impactful interdisciplinary research, as a sought-after mentor for graduate students and as an innovator in building biomedical education at Mines.
“Holding this endowed chair is a huge honor,” said Diniz Behn, who started the position in late fall 2025. “It will give me new flexibility to tackle bigger questions while they are in a more nascent state, opportunities to promote interdisciplinary biomedical research on campus and, importantly, additional funding to support my graduate students and postdocs.”