Founding Dean of Graduate School and Vice Provost of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies #00025872

University of Missouri System • Rolla, MO

76d

About The Position

Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) invites applications and nominations for the position of Founding Dean of the Graduate School and Vice Provost of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. This newly established leadership role presents a unique opportunity for a visionary academic leader to shape and elevate graduate and postdoctoral education at a nationally recognized STEM-focused R1 research university. The successful candidate will lead the development of a centralized Graduate School and provide strategic oversight of the university's postdoctoral enterprise. This dual role is designed to foster integration, innovation, and excellence across graduate and postdoctoral programs, aligning both with Missouri S&T's mission and strategic priorities. This individual will engage in possibility thinking, scenario development and work closely with the Chancellor, Provost, and university leadership including the three colleges and their deans to increase Ph.D. enrollment and foster student success and institutional growth.

Requirements

• Earned doctorate from an accredited institution
• Distinguished record of scholarly achievement and research, qualifying for appointment as a tenured full professor
• Minimum of 10 years of executive leadership experience in higher education, with a strong background in research and mentoring Ph.D. students and postdoctoral fellows
• Proven success in academic administration, preferably at a research-intensive institution
• Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, program development, and budget management
• Experience mentoring graduate students and/or postdoctoral scholars
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and foster a culture of teamwork and respect
• Commitment to assessment, continuous improvement, and evidence-based practices

Nice To Haves

• Visionary and Strategic: Able to articulate and implement a bold vision for graduate and postdoctoral education
• Collaborative and Engaging: Skilled in building consensus and engaging stakeholders across the university
• Empathetic and Decisive: Balances sound decision-making with empathy and understanding of student and scholar experiences
• Resilient and Accountable: Demonstrates integrity, resilience, and a results-oriented approach
• Inspiring and Supportive: Motivates and supports faculty, staff, and students in achieving academic excellence

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead a new centralized Graduate School that supports academic excellence, innovation, and student success
• Drive strategic enrollment growth and enhance the graduate and postdoctoral experience
• Provide high-level leadership for postdoctoral affairs, fostering a vibrant and inclusive research community
• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for the Graduate School in alignment with institutional goals
• Collaborate with academic deans, department chairs, faculty, and administrative leaders to recruit a diverse pool of domestic and international graduate students, with a strong emphasis on Ph.D. enrollment
• Lead the expansion and enhancement of graduate programs, ensuring academic rigor and relevance
• Strengthen graduate admissions processes and deploy strategic initiatives to attract top-tier students for both on-campus and online programs
• Partner with academic leadership to administer graduate education policies and uphold academic standards
• Champion initiatives that support recruitment, retention, degree completion, and professional development; engage with the Graduate Student Council and Graduate Faculty Council
• Oversee budget planning, resource allocation, and advancement efforts to secure external funding and philanthropic support
• Serve as the chief advocate for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars, promoting their academic and professional growth
• Develop and manage policies, benefits, and services for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars in compliance with institutional and regulatory standards
• Enhance career development programs and foster a supportive environment for high-quality research and training experiences
• Partner with academic and administrative units, including the Office of Sponsored Programs, to promote interdisciplinary research and integrate postdoctoral affairs

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees