Since the University of Michigan began searching for a new president weeks ago, rumors about the possibility of the U’s president returning to Ann Arbor, Mich., have spread quickly.

U President Bernie Machen, who was provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at the U of Michigan from 1995-1997, dispelled the rumors.

“I’m not considering any other jobs at this time,” Machen said. “I have a lot of friends there, but I’m not looking at any other jobs at this time. “

Former Special Assistant to Machen Mike Benson said, “I wouldn’t be surprised?to hear that the Machens are heading to Ann Arbor?U of M is one of the top public research institutions in the world, and Bernie is perfectly suited for the job. From what I know, many on the Michigan campus think the world of him and would kill to have him back.”

The U of Michigan search committee is in the process of creating a list of possible candidates and won’t disclose whether or not Machen’s name has made the list.

“We are very early in the process,” said Julie Peterson, U of Michigan spokeswoman. The committee will not comment on the names of specific candidates until it has narrowed the search to a few finalists. This process could take more than two months.

Machen came to the U four years ago. He is the 13th president of the U.