Department Head of Chemistry and Physics

Southeastern Louisiana University•Hammond, LA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Southeastern Louisiana University's College of Science and Technology in Hammond, LA invites applications for a collaborative, forward-thinking Department Head to lead its Department of Chemistry and Physics, beginning Spring or Summer 2027. This twelve-month administrative position is primarily responsible for advancing the culture of academic excellence, where distinction in teaching, research, scholarship, and service is expected and rewarded. As the link between the faculty and the central administration, the head is expected to provide leadership for curriculum development, implementation, and the assessment of student learning. The head is also responsible for managing all budgets related to the department and teaching undergraduate courses within it. The head should be a driving force behind the development and enhancement of curricula, research programs, scholarly efforts, and strategic initiatives that further the department's and college's strategic plans, including recruiting and retaining a diverse student population, and developing partnerships with industry and the local community. Southeastern Louisiana University is located in Hammond, less than 50 miles from New Orleans and Baton Rouge, with an enrollment of more than 15,000 students. The Department of Chemistry and Physics offers a Chemistry B.S. with concentrations in Chemistry (ACS certified), Biochemistry, and Interdisciplinary Studies, and a Physics B.S. with concentrations in Physics, Engineering Physics, and Applied Physics, including dual-degree partnerships with two LSU campuses, and serves approximately 85 chemistry and 40 physics undergraduate students.

Requirements

Terminal degree (doctorate) in a discipline directly related to Chemistry or Physics from an accredited university by hire date.
Credentials commensurate with a faculty appointment at the associate or full professor level.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated success in academic administration, including leading teams and managing budgets and programs, or relevant industry experience that connects classroom instruction with real-world practice.
Proven experience cultivating beneficial relationships and partnerships with regional industry.
A strong record of excellence in research and teaching, reflecting a commitment to high academic standards and innovative practices.
Demonstrated ability to lead and support faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds and lived experiences.
Experience with accreditation processes and relevant professional societies, including program assessment, continuous improvement, and compliance with ACS accreditation standards.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and foster an inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

Oversees strategic (short- and long-range) planning, direction, and development of the department.
Coordinates and administers rules and academic standards regarding undergraduate and graduate instruction, curricula, and scheduling.
Plans, initiates, and oversees the execution of organizational, operational, and academic programs for the department.
Leads faculty development and recruitment; evaluates faculty in accordance with tenure and promotion guidelines; makes recommendations for faculty appointments, promotions, and compensation; and provides support for fundraising, proposal writing, and developing new programs in congruence with the University's mission.
Manages and allocates the department's budget to support academic, research, and operational needs, including developing budget requests for the Dean.
Coordinates departmental policies and procedures.
Represents the department at formal functions and in public relations efforts, including speaking engagements and community outreach.
Works with and chairs University committees as assigned; assists the Dean in formulating College policies and procedures.
Maintains operational procedures, rules, and standards relating to faculty and staff.
Oversees course scheduling and recommends implementation or removal of courses, concentrations, and programs.
Advises the Dean and Provost on academic matters concerning the department.
Leads assessment of student learning outcomes and program effectiveness.
Champions the growth of research initiatives, including interdisciplinary collaboration and external funding opportunities.