Dr. Peter J. Mohler became the 30th president of The University of Alabama on July 21, 2025.
Dr. Peter Mohler began his tenure as the 30th president of The University of Alabama on July 21, 2025. With a distinguished record of advancing research, innovation and collaboration, Dr. Mohler is a proven leader and visionary in higher education.
Before joining UA, Dr. Mohler spent about 15 years at The Ohio State University, where he most recently served as executive vice president for research, innovation and knowledge and as chief scientific officer of the Wexner Medical Center. His leadership at Ohio State was marked by transformative growth in academics, research and innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and discovery and economic growth with broad societal impact. In 2023, Dr. Mohler served as acting president of Ohio State, leading over 60,000 students across 15 colleges, demonstrating his capacity for steady, trusted leadership during pivotal moments.
Dr. Mohler’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in biology from Wake Forest University in 1995, followed by a doctorate in cell and molecular physiology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2000. He completed a Howard Hughes Medical Institute postdoctoral fellowship at Duke University.
Widely recognized for his contributions to science and innovation, Dr. Mohler has been named a Pew Scholar in Biomedical Sciences, an Outstanding Investigator by the American Heart Association, and an Outstanding Investigator from the National Institutes of Health. His work advances translational research, fosters partnerships across disciplines and helps shape the future of biomedical science and higher education.
A proud product of undergraduate education in the South, Dr. Mohler was drawn to The University of Alabama by its powerful combination of student success, academic excellence, athletic tradition and the alignment of pride and purpose that defines the Capstone.
Known for his authenticity and approachability, Dr. Mohler leads with integrity, humility and a steadfast commitment to shared governance. He is deeply dedicated to listening first, creating space for civil discourse and uniting communities around bold, strategic action.
Dr. Mohler believes that The University of Alabama continues to build on its legacy of excellence while embracing its role as an engine for economic development, innovation and service. He is passionate about championing UA’s unique public mission — as a place where innovative ideas thrive, lives and communities are transformed, leaders are created and a ripple effect of higher education success strengthens society at large.
At the heart of his vision is the belief that every student should be equipped to make a difference. In his first months at UA, Dr. Mohler will prioritize engagement and learning from students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners to chart a shared path forward.
Dr. Mohler and his wife, Nancy, are proud to be part of the UA family. They have three children: Eleanor, Caroline and John.
“I am honored to join the talented leadership team at The University of Alabama. Together, we’ll build upon our legacy of excellence and shape a bold new era at UA. Roll Tide!” Dr. Mohler said.