Associate / Full Professor - Department Head for Food Science

UMass Amherst•Amherst, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Food Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for an academic year, tenure-track faculty position with a five-year commitment to serve as Department Head. This is a mid-career or senior level position, and the candidate will be reviewed for tenure during their first year of appointment. They are expected to have at least 5 years’ experience in a tenure-track professorship post in Food Science or related fields, with a record of excellence in research, teaching, and outreach. A successful record of leadership in grant-funded projects is desirable. We seek a dynamic, innovative, and principled academic leader with a strong track record in leadership and a vision for the future of food science, who will advance excellence in the research, education, extension, and outreach mission of the department while strengthening a culture of collegiality and shared purpose. The successful candidate will bring demonstrated experience working constructively across differing perspectives, supporting faculty and staff development, promoting fair and transparent academic processes, and aligning individual strengths with department-wide strategic goals. Preference will be given to candidates who would demonstrate excellence in advancing interdisciplinary and translational research in food science and complementing the current research areas of the food science. The successful candidate must be committed to fostering a collegial and collaborative workplace that attracts and retains a diverse community of faculty, staff, and students. The Department of Food Science places special emphasis on research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, experiential learning, student success, industrial engagement, and a commitment to inclusive excellence. Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness. Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

Requirements

Ph.D. or equivalent in Food Science or a related field.
Current position as a tenured associate or full professor with credentials and experience that are appropriate for a mid- to senior level appointment at UMass.
Internationally recognized for their contributions in a food science related discipline.
Demonstrated leadership skills and experience as evidenced by either managing academic programs or serving on key departmental or university committees.
A strong track record of scholarship, extramural funding, and teaching commensurate with experience and rank.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
Evidence of commitment to fostering a collegial, collaborative, and inclusive workplace.
At least 5 years’ experience in a tenure-track professorship post in Food Science or related fields, with a record of excellence in research, teaching, and outreach.

Nice To Haves

A successful record of leadership in grant-funded projects is desirable.
A clear and innovative vision for the future of food science research, educational, and extension programs.
Experience managing facilities, personnel, and budgets.
Experience with industry, alumni, and community engagement.
Instructional experience including oversight of curricula and educational programs.

Responsibilities

Lead the department in the articulation of its vision and goals for its mission in research, education, outreach, and inclusive excellence.
Serve as the responsible authority within the department on all research, educational, outreach, facilities, and personnel matters.
Provide strategic and operational leadership for the department, including the development and implementation of policy and administrative structure to advance all aspects of the department’s mission.
Model success in research, education, outreach, and inclusive excellence, and facilitate faculty development in these areas by articulating and supporting the achievement of clear expectations and goals.
Use data informed insights to guide strategic planning, strengthen accountability, and enhance excellence in teaching, research, and engagement.
Develop and support programmatic relationships with other departments, schools, and colleges at UMass and with external partners to advance the department’s mission.
Engage with the department’s Advisory Board for biannual board meetings, events, and activities to support industrial and alumni engagement, student success, and fundraising.