Department Chair, Department of Epidemiology (COPH)

University of Arkansas • Little Rock, AR

22h

About The Position

The Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences invites applications and nominations for Chair of the Department of Epidemiology. The Chair will provide strategic, academic, and administrative leadership for a nationally recognized department advancing population health through research, education, service, and community engagement. Reporting directly to the Dean, the Chair will work with faculty, staff, students, college leadership, and external partners to strengthen the department’s impact in Arkansas and beyond. The role offers an opportunity to shape epidemiology research and training, build on departmental strengths, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, expand research excellence, and foster an environment where faculty, staff, and students can thrive.

The successful candidate will be a respected scholar, collaborative leader, and committed mentor who can articulate a compelling vision for the department. They will inspire excellence, build partnerships, advance innovative research and education initiatives, and strengthen the department’s reputation in epidemiology and population health. The position includes leadership of departmental research, educational programs, personnel, resources, and external relationships, while maintaining an active, nationally recognized program of scholarship.

Requirements

• Earned doctoral degree (PhD, DrPH, MD, or equivalent) in Epidemiology, Public Health, or a closely related discipline.
• Qualifications for appointment at the rank of Professor with tenure.
• Distinguished record of scholarship, including peer-reviewed publications and a history of successful extramural funding.
• Demonstrated excellence in teaching, mentoring, and student development.
• Proven leadership experience in an academic, research, or public health setting.
• Evidence of successful collaboration across disciplines and sectors.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the department.
• Recruit, develop, mentor, and retain outstanding faculty and staff.
• Advance a strong culture of research excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
• Expand the department’s portfolio of externally funded research.
• Promote excellence in undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and continuing education programs.
• Support student recruitment, retention, mentoring, and career success.
• Foster interdisciplinary partnerships across UAMS and with public health, healthcare, community, governmental, and industry partners.
• Provide effective stewardship of departmental resources, including budgeting, personnel, and operational oversight.
• Represent the department within the College, UAMS, professional organizations, and external stakeholder communities.
• Maintain an active and nationally recognized program of scholarship.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans available for qualifying staff and family.
• Holiday, vacation, and sick leave.
• Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only).
• Retirement contribution match of up to 10%.
• Basic life insurance up to $50,000.
• Career training and educational opportunities.
• Merchant discounts.
• Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using the UAMS pharmacy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree