Department Chair and Professor of Physics

Department Chair and Professor of Physics

The University of Michigan, a top-ranked public research institution in Ann Arbor, Michigan, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for its next Department Chair and Professor of Physics. This is an on-site leadership role, with an expectation of an initial five-year term as chair and an ongoing tenured faculty appointment. The chair's term begins July 1, 2025.

The University of Michigan is ranked as the second (#2) public research university by the National Science Foundation and the third-best U.S. public university by U.S. News and World Report (2022). From the time of its founding in 1817, the University of Michigan has developed into a national model of a complex, diverse, and comprehensive institution of higher learning that supports excellence in research; provides outstanding undergraduate, graduate, and professional education; and demonstrates a commitment to public service and engagement. The Ann Arbor campus is 35 miles southwest of Detroit, with regional campuses in Dearborn and Flint.

The chairship is a five-year renewable appointment at 50 percent effort with support from a departmental chief administrator and an executive assistant. The department chair is responsible for leading the faculty in carrying out the shared mission of the college and the unit through teaching, scholarly work, leadership, governance, and professional activities.

Salary will be commensurate with experience. The chair receives additional compensation. Candidates are eligible for research start-up funds.

Qualifications
The successful candidate will qualify for the rank of professor in any area of physics. Candidates must be accomplished scholars with an established, externally funded research program, a record of effective teaching, and a national or international reputation for excellence in physics. Evidence of effective leadership skills needed to chair a nationally ranked physics department is required.

In addition to the qualifications stated above, department faculty, staff, and students identified the following capabilities and attributes of a successful candidate:

• Capacity and vision to advance the physics department, anticipating new areas for research and teaching and demonstrating knowledge, interest, and concern in physics subdisciplines beyond one's own
  
• Collegial, approachable, and level-headed
  
• Committed to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion
  
• An able facilitator who will lead strategic planning, working with faculty and staff to establish priorities and department goals
  
• Mentorship and professional development experience
  
• A track record of supporting graduate and undergraduate student success
  
• Experience with budget, facilities, research, and curriculum oversight
  
• Models collegiality, integrity, and professional competence and fosters a climate of civility and mutual respect

Application and Nomination
University of Michigan has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin September 23, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a CV and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/department-chair-and-professor-of-physics/. The cover letter should include brief (no more than one paragraph each)discussionsof your (a) reasons for being interested in this position, (b) most significant leadership experience and leadership style, (c) research interests and major accomplishments, (d) teaching and mentoring philosophy and experience, (e) key service contributions to your institution and scientific community, and (f) experience and/or plans for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.)

• Contact Sharon Meagher at smm@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries and nominations.
  
• Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.

Visit the University of Michigan website at www.umich.edu

Employment will require both a criminal background check and an institutional reference check regarding any misconduct. Candidates will be required to submit a self-disclosure form as well as an authorization to release information form. The University of Michigan is supportive of the needs of dual career couples and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and members of minority groups are encouraged to apply.

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