Biography
| 1996–1997 | Engineer, S.C. ASTRA Vagoane Arad S.A., responsible for process automation |
| 1997–2002 | Assistant, Faculty of Automation and Computers, UPT |
| 2002–2009 | Lecturer, Faculty of Automation and Computers, UPT |
| 2009–present | Associate Professor, Faculty of Automation and Computers, UPT |
| 2003–2007 | Manager, S.C. VR-NET SRL, IT sector |
| 2007–2016 | Manager, S.C. Intelligent Software Systems SRL, IT sector |
| 2012–2016 | President of the Teaching and Learning Committee, Senate of UPT |
| 2016 (Feb–Mar) | Department Director, Automation and Applied Informatics, UPT |
| 2016–2020 | Vice-Rector for Education and Student Affairs, UPT |
| 2020–present | Rector of Politehnica University of Timișoara. |
In this capacity, he has advanced institutional governance and innovation through a strategy of digital transformation, introduction of structured leadership and organizational culture programs, and the implementation of a pioneering university-wide feedback system. He has positioned UPT as a national benchmark for interdisciplinarity, mediating between technology, culture, and the arts, while also strengthening international partnerships.
Research Field
Automation and intelligent control systems, Chaotic systems and power electronics, Robotics and programmable automation, Digital transformation in higher education, Organizational culture and academic leadership.
Major Achievements
PhD in Automation (2007), thesis on chaotic systems and electronic converters;
Author and co-author of over 80 scientific papers, 3 books, and 1 international book chapter.
Director or member of over 20 national and international research projects (CNCSIS, POSDRU, POCU, EU-funded).
Contributor to E³UDRES² – Engaged and Entrepreneurial European University initiative.
Promoted interdisciplinary projects linking science, culture, and technology, positioning UPT as a hub for innovation and creativity.
Active supporter of student initiatives, sports, and cultural development, broadening UPT’s role in the community.
On a broader scale, he has contributed significantly to the institutional advancement and global visibility of the university, fostering strategic partnerships with prestigious universities and industry leaders worldwide.
Reasons for selection
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eng. Florin Drăgan exemplifies visionary academic leadership, uniting digital transformation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement. As Rector of UPT, he has expanded the university’s global visibility, strengthened ties with international partners, and championed innovation in education, culture, and sports. His combined experience in academia, private sector management, and institutional governance makes him a driving force in redefining higher education in Romania and beyond.