The School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Austin announced that Cao Fang will join its faculty as a tenure-track assistant professor, effective in August.
Fang is currently finishing her doctoral studies at the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis. Her research specializes in families affected by children’s developmental disabilities and mental health conditions, with a focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder and mental health service for children and families with special needs.
“Interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and meeting the needs of persons with disabilities are the gold standard in social work education. Professor Fang brings remarkable expertise in autism, behavioral analysis and family wellbeing, and I am so pleased to welcome her to our faculty,” said Allan Cole, dean of UT Social Work. “Her work will strengthen our school and, more importantly, change lives here in Austin and far beyond the Forty Acres.”
As a former behavioral therapist, Fang brings both practice and research experience on an international level that will impact her scholarship at UT. She will teach across UT Social Work’s undergraduate and graduate programs, develop and implement research, and maintain a strong record of high-impact publications.
“I strive to create classrooms where students feel supported, respected, and also challenged,” Fang said. “I also strive to conduct strong, evidence-based research for the betterment of families, children with disabilities, and support systems for those with special needs. It’s an honor to do that work at The University of Texas, and I look forward to working with the incredible faculty at UT Social Work.”