Jack Dennerlein, PhD

Other BU Affiliations

Professor Affiliated, Department of Environmental Health
Professor Affiliated, Department of Biomedical Engineering
BU Medical Campus Profile

Biography

Jack Dennerlein, PhD, is Dean of Boston University’s Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences and an interdisciplinary scholar whose work spans engineering, public health, ergonomics, rehabilitation sciences, and medicine, advancing the health and safety of workers around the globe. Throughout his career, he has focused on understanding and improving the systems that shape human health, safety, and well-being at work.  His research has advanced the design of technologies, workplaces, organizations, and policies that improve system performance and human well-being.’

As dean, Dr. Dennerlein has led Sargent College through a period of strategic growth and transformation guided by a collaborative, data-informed, and people-centered approach. Working closely with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners, he led the development of the college’s strategic plan, aligning its strengths in education, research, clinical practice, and community engagement with Boston University’s broader institutional vision.

Under his leadership, Sargent has achieved record levels of research activity while expanding the infrastructure, partnerships, and support systems that enable faculty and student success. He has strengthened faculty development and leadership, modernized communications and advancement operations, advanced innovation in teaching and learning, and enhanced the college’s national visibility and impact.

Dr. Dennerlein is deeply committed to student success and workforce preparation. He has supported the expansion of experiential learning opportunities, strengthened clinical and community partnerships, advanced a more sustainable doctoral education model, and championed faculty-led initiatives exploring the role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in healthcare education and practice.

His leadership is grounded in a simple principle: listen, learn, and change. He believes that effective organizations cultivate curiosity, embrace continuous improvement, and create the conditions in which people and institutions can thrive together. Through scholarship, leadership, and partnership, Dr. Dennerlein continues to advance Sargent College’s mission of advancing a healthier, more equitable world through education, research, clinical practice, and service.

Publications

• Lists of published works: Google Scholar
• Lists of published works: ORCID
• NIH National Library of Medicine