The Department of Biological Sciences at Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) invites applications for the position of Kummer Endowed Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences to start Fall Semester of 2025. The Biology Department supports a comprehensive biology education through undergraduate programs in biology, environmental sciences, and biology education with a strong history of positioning graduates in the private sector, professional schools, doctoral programs and governmental positions.  As the STEM-focused university of the University of Missouri system, Missouri S&T offers unique opportunities to lead impactful interdisciplinary collaborations.

The next Chair will lead the department through a dynamic period of growth and help establish the trajectory of expanding biology research and education across Missouri S&T.  The department is launching a doctoral program in Fall 2024, continuing renovation of research and teaching facilities, and recalibrating research activity and resources for the pending transition to a Carnegie R1 research institution.  This transition is intended to grow programs that address national and global challenges in human and environmental health sciences.  In addition, the university is investing in biology-related research infrastructure across campus, including a doctoral program in bioengineering and an undergraduate biomedical engineering degree.  To support the interdisciplinary focus of biology research, the university is planning a $120M building (Missouri S&T BioPlex) intended to integrate disciplines to address tomorrow’s biggest life and health science challenges.

Driving much of this investment is the Kummer Institute for Student Success, Research and Economic Development, established in October 2020 through a gift of $300 million from June and Fred Kummer, longtime benefactors of Missouri University of Science and Technology. The Institute is transforming Missouri S&T and the southcentral Missouri region by cultivating leadership and technological innovation; nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset; fostering expansion of academic-industry partnerships to directly address emerging needs of industry; and creating economic growth for the region.  As part of that development, substantial annual funds from the Kummer endowment will be dedicated to investment in Biological Sciences departmental infrastructure and projects to raise the profile of the department nationally and internationally. 

The future of the Department of Biological Science will be driven by elevating existing capabilities and expertise coupled with new investment in the department and adjacent programs.  Therefore, the ideal candidate will be expected to provide effective leadership that will:

• Draw on administrative experience to guide the newly established doctoral research program with resources for additional faculty to enhance departmental programs.
• Elevate existing research programs through mentorship, identifying opportunities, and strategic support.
• Maintain historic strengths and grow programs in undergraduate education.
• Encourage and develop interdisciplinary research and entrepreneurial approaches on campus and fostering public-private partnerships.
• Promote and advocate for the development of biology programs within a STEM-focused environment.
• Oversee departmental input into the BioPlex.

Located about 100 miles west of St. Louis in the affordable community of Rolla, Missouri S&T is an accessible, safe, and friendly campus atop the Ozark Plateau, which is characterized by spectacular scenery, abundant outdoor opportunities, and high biodiversity.

Qualified candidates must have a Ph.D. in biological sciences or a related life science field and rank of full professor or be qualified for tenure and appointment to the rank of full professor. They should have an outstanding record of scholarship evidenced by a strong record of publication and related funding as well as a clear and demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring of students.  Successful candidates will also have demonstrated administrative experience in managing doctoral programs, research-center level programs, or other significant administrative experience.  Interested candidates should electronically submit an application consisting of a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and complete information for three references to the Missouri University of Science and Technology's Human Resources Office at https://hr.mst.edu/careers/academic-employment/.  The cover letter should discuss administrative experience, leadership philosophy, research achievements and goals, and teaching experience and goals. The three professional references should be sent to: Matt Thimgan (thimgan@mst.edu). Review of applications will begin October 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled.

Human Resource Services

Reference #: 51920

Missouri University of Science and Technology

1870 Miner Circle

Rolla, MO 65409

 Missouri S&T is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.