FAIRFAX, VA — The University of Fairfax has appointed Dr. Rajan Thapaliya as Asst. Dean of Computer Science, Cybersecurity & Information Technology. He began in his new position starting Feb. 15, 2026.
Dr. Rajan Thapaliya is a distinguished academic leader, award-winning professor, and a leading voice in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Computer Science, known for his exceptional record of academic leadership and impact, the University said in its news release available on the website at ufairfax.edu.
Prior to joining University of Fairfax, Dr. Thapaliya served as Program Chair for the doctoral-level (DBA) program in Digital and Computer Science at Golden Gate University (GGU Worldwide). He was recognized among the Top 20 Machine Learning Influencers in the United States by Influencer Hero.
As a professor, Dr. Thapaliya has taught MS- and PhD-level courses in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, and Information Technology at universities across the United States. He also serves as a PhD Dissertation Chair and an SME, guiding doctoral candidates in advanced, interdisciplinary research in cutting-edge technology areas. Dr. Thapaliya also serves as an academic editor and peer reviewer for multiple journals and publishing platforms, the news release said.
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Dr. Thapaliya earned both his Master’s degree and PhD in Data Science from National University of California. He also holds a Masters in Business Administration degree as well as one in Masters of Public Health.
Beyond academia, Dr. Thapaliya has served as a Subject Matter Expert in the Engineering and Technology Department at Prometric, a globally recognized assessment organization, and has held roles as a Director of Data Science, Senior Consultant, and senior-level manager and chair across diverse organizations.
“Dr. Rajan Thapaliya’s blend of executive leadership, teaching excellence, and educational innovation is expected to contribute significantly to the University of Fairfax’s mission and long-term success,” the news release said. “Dr. Thapaliya defines leadership as serving others through vision, integrity, and continuous improvement, while empowering students and faculty to achieve excellence through collaboration, innovation, and lifelong learning,” it added. He is committed to advancing career-focused education that prepares learners for success in today’s rapidly evolving digital economy, the University said.
His expertise and areas of interest include:
Generative AI, Software Design & Architecture, DevOps & Deployment, Data engineering and architect, Blockchain and Cryptography, Deep Learning and Natural Language Processing, Machine learning, Artificial intelligence (AI), Web Automation/Web3, Text mining and Data mining, Big data, Predictive models, Data Science Strategies, Cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), Risk Management, Business intelligence (BI), Computer forensics, Neural network, Database Management Systems, Networking and Internet Architecture, Web scraping and Robotics AI.