Predrag Krajacic, M.D., was named associate dean of undergraduate medical education for the School of Medicine Columbia, and began his position on September 1, 2024. Krajacic joined the SOMC team from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, where he served as the assistant dean for curricular affairs.

“We are quite fortunate to have an individual with Dr. Krajacic’s credentials, experience, and talent join us as we continue to grow and improve our educational infrastructure at the School of Medicine Columbia,” Harmon commented.

Krajacic earned his medical degree from the University of Belgrade (Serbia) School of Medicine and completed his postdoctoral training in muscle physiology and disease at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia. He then joined the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in 2013 as an assistant professor in the biomedical sciences department, eventually receiving tenure and promotion, becoming the only faculty member with a dual appointment in both the biomedical sciences and clinical sciences departments.

"I am thrilled to be embarking on this new journey with SOMC, joining an incredible team of dedicated professionals," Krajacic said. This is an exciting time of growth for the school, and I am eager to contribute to its vibrant future."

In his role as assistant dean for curricular affairs, Krajacic held several key responsibilities, including curricular implementation, oversight and renewal, and other aspects of pre-clinical medical education. While at WVSOM, Krajacic served on several committees, including as chair of the Curriculum Building Committee, and previous chair of both the Curriculum Review and Research Committees, the latter of which he chaired for four years. He also played an integral role in a site visit and accreditation cycle for WVSOM by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation, which resulted in continued accreditation for the school.

In addition to his role at WVSOM, Krajacic also serves as a faculty member for two professional development courses for medical educators at Harvard Medical School’s Harvard Macy Institute. During his career he has collected several accolades, including WVSOM’s Outstanding Faculty Award (2016) and the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (2008), and has also authored, or co-authored, numerous publications.