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University of Utah medical school dean David Bjorkman has been named medical dean at Florida Atlantic University.

FAU, a public research university located in Boca Raton, launched its Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine this fall when it admitted its inaugural class of 64 students. Bjorkman is expected to start Jan. 1.

"Dr. Bjorkman's impressive background and prior contributions to the health sciences are strongly indicative of the leader FAU sought for its College of Medicine," said FAU President Mary Jane Saunders in a release. "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."

A professor of gastroenterology, Bjorkman has been dean of the U. School of Medicine since 2004, also serving as executive director of the U. Medical Group.

His duties as dean will be taken over by Vivian Lee, the U.'s new senior vice president for health sciences, according to a university spokesman.