Posted Thursday, June 2, 1:11 p.m. The University conducted a broad search for the next dean of the Elliott School of International Affairs, but ultimately plucked a professor from a neighboring institution to head it up. Michael Brown, who directs several policy programs at Georgetown University, will become dean of GW’s international affairs school Aug. 1.

“It’s a terrific school with a first-rate faculty, and the reputation of the school is fabulous,” said Brown in a phone interview Thursday afternoon. The University plans to announce his appointment Friday.

At Georgetown, Brown is the director of the security studies program and Center for Peace and Security Studies at the university’s foreign service school. He is the editor and author of several books, and previously directed an international security program at Harvard.

“I think I have a broad background,” Brown said. “That’s something that will be helpful in a school with a wide range of institutions and a wide range of programs.”

As dean, Brown said he would explore the expansion of the Elliott school’s research centers, but cautioned that he isn’t going into his new job with a “blueprint.”

“You have to work with people to build a consensus where everyone wants to go,” he said.

With Brown’s selection and the announcement earlier this month that a Boston University professor will head the Law School, the University has only one more high-profile academic vacancy to fill. Officials have given no indication when they will select the next director of the School of Media and Public Affairs, which has gone without a permanent head for more than two years.