The Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA) at Northwestern University is delighted to welcome Daniel Linzer and Sunil Sanghvi as the newest members of its Board of Visitors.
Both Linzer and Sanghvi bring exceptional leadership experience, deep scientific insight, and a long-standing commitment to advancing education and research. Their diverse expertise and passion for discovery will be invaluable as CIERA continues to push the frontiers of astrophysics and foster collaboration across disciplines.
Daniel Linzer earned his Bachelor of Science in molecular biophysics and biochemistry from Yale University and his PhD in biochemical sciences from Princeton University. He joined Northwestern University in 1984 as an assistant professor and went on to become a full professor of molecular biosciences. Linzer has received numerous honors, including the Searle Scholars Award, the American Cancer Society Faculty Research Award, and the Northwestern Alumni Association Excellence in Teaching Award.
At Northwestern, Linzer held several key leadership roles — serving as Associate Dean for the Sciences in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences (1998–2002), Dean of Weinberg College (2002–2007), and Provost of the University (2007–2017). Following his tenure at Northwestern, he became President of the Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA) in 2017, where he championed support for innovative scientific research. Linzer retired in June 2025 and now serves as President Emeritus of RCSA.
Sunil Sanghvi is Senior Partner Emeritus at McKinsey & Company, where he founded and led the firm’s global Agriculture Practice. His career has focused on improving food systems and supporting sustainable agriculture in low-income countries. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Sanghvi is deeply engaged in nonprofit initiatives that promote science, education, and global development.
A lifelong astronomy enthusiast, Sanghvi’s fascination with the cosmos began in childhood — reading every astronomy book in his school library and purchasing his first telescope, a six-inch Criterion reflector, at age 12 with money saved from mowing lawns.
CIERA warmly welcomes Daniel Linzer and Sunil Sanghvi to its Board of Visitors and looks forward to their guidance as the Center continues to explore the mysteries of the universe and expand the impact of interdisciplinary astrophysics research.