Pennsylvania State University, University Park Main Campus

Department Head of Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry within the Eberly College of Science at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a dynamic, innovative, and visionary leader for the position of Department Head. The position is open to candidates with a Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field, and credentials for appointment as a full professor. Some previous leadership experience in academic or professional environments is desirable.

The Eberly College of Science Department of Chemistry has a three-pronged mission: To conduct world-class, groundbreaking research in the chemical sciences, to offer the highest quality education to all students, and engage the public through innovative outreach initiatives. The department's leadership in research, teaching, and outreach includes the traditional areas of physical, analytical, inorganic, and organic chemistry, and has rapidly evolved to encompass energy & environmental chemistry, chemical biology, biophysical chemistry, soft and hard materials chemistry, and nanotechnology. Chemistry's undergraduate program has an innovative curriculum that provides students with outstanding training for various career paths, including careers in the chemical industry, academia, medicine, education, government, and beyond. The doctoral program allows students substantial flexibility in developing a Ph.D. experience uniquely suited to their interests and goals cultivating an environment where they can excel in their thesis research, develop their scientific passion and expertise, and contribute to the broader scientific community.

The department's large and diverse faculty are involved in cutting-edge research, leaders in their fields, and recipients of numerous awards for their scientific contributions. Penn State Chemistry promotes the vigorous exchange of ideas in the lab and in the classroom, the free pursuit of scientific knowledge, and creativity in problem solving, all within an environment that is respectful and collegial to all members of the department: students, postdocs, faculty, and staff.

The department head provides visionary leadership to all aspects of the departmental mission, is the representative of the department to senior leadership across the university, and is responsible for ensuring the fiscal health of the department, including securing the necessary resources to implement its strategic priorities and mission successfully. The department head must be a collaborative and inspiring leader committed to promoting excellence and cohesion across all aspects of the department to succeed in these objectives. They must have a collaborative approach to expand the department's reach by building relationships with other programs, departments, and institutes throughout the university, with the university leadership, and with external stakeholders. The head must be committed to high-quality undergraduate and graduate education, have a proven track record of excellence in teaching and research, and act as a champion for the department's diverse teaching, research, and outreach programs. A commitment to mentoring students, postdocs, faculty and staff is essential.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate a commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusive excellence at the classroom, department, and university level. Evidence of prior successful and high-impact initiatives in this regard is desirable.

Additional Information

To apply, applicants should upload the following materials through the PSU jobs website:

1) A cover letter outlining how their background and experience position them to lead the department and contribute to its teaching, service, and research missions.

2) A complete curriculum vitae.

Review of applications will begin on November 9 and continue until the position is filled. Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Elizabeth McGraw, Chair of the Search Committee, at eam7@psu.edu.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

Apply online at https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Academic/job/Penn-State-University-Park/Department-Head-of-Chemistry_REQ_0000048601-1

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: For more about safety at Penn State, and to review the Annual Security Report which contains information about crime statistics and other safety and security matters, please go to http://www.police.psu.edu/clery/, which will also provide you with detail on how to request a hard copy of the Annual Security Report.

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.