Applications are invited for the position of Head of the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (CBE) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT). An academic leader is sought to continue the department’s trajectory by providing a strategic vision, overseeing high-quality research and educational programs, and guiding the department to further accomplishment and impact.
During the past 15 years, the department has undergone significant and important growth and transformation: Undergraduate and graduate student populations have increased several-fold. The size of faculty has nearly doubled to 15 T/TT FTE with total yearly research expenditures around $6M. The faculty includes three UT-ORNL Governor’s Chairs, five NSF CAREER Award winners (three since 2016), an a DARPA Young Faculty Award winner. The department enjoys close ties with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL, about 30 miles away) and regional industrial partners including Eastman Chemical Company.
Primary responsibilities of the department head include:
- to provide visionary leadership and to encourage excellence and innovation in research, teaching, and service;
- to advance professional development of faculty, staff, and students;
- to promote productive relationships with all constituents including students, alumni, industry, and government agencies; and
- to foster productive interdisciplinary relationships with a variety of entities within the university community.
Applicants will hold a doctorate degree in chemical engineering or other closely related discipline and be eligible for appointment at the rank of full Professor. Expectations for the position are:
- demonstrated excellence in research;
- visibility in the Chemical Engineering community;
- a proven record of exceptional leadership;
- and a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion capable of leading with a spirit of humanity, generosity and empathy.
The next department head will provide vision and leadership in elevating the national prominence of the department in academic and research excellence, demonstrate an appropriately balanced perspective on research, teaching and service, and have the ability to lead a faculty representing a diverse range of interests. The successful candidate will have a record of excellent graduate and undergraduate teaching and show promise in engaging external stakeholders.
About UT
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is the state’s flagship research institution, a campus of choice for outstanding undergraduates, and a premier graduate institution. As a land-grant university, UT is committed to excellence in learning, scholarship, and engagement with society. In all its activities, the university aims to advance the frontiers of human knowledge and enrich and elevate society. The Tickle College of Engineering has experienced rapid growth in its number of faculty and student enrollment. In addition to University faculty and staff, more than 2,000 PhDs work in nearby technology-based companies including UT/Battelle- managed ORNL. UT is seeking candidates who have the ability to contribute in meaningful ways to the diversity and intercultural goals of the university. The university welcomes and honors people of all races, genders, creeds, cultures, and sexual orientations, and values intellectual curiosity, pursuit of knowledge, and academic freedom and integrity.
About Knoxville
The city of Knoxville is a hidden gem. It is surrounded by eight gorgeous lakes and has a beautiful and walkable downtown, a diverse music scene including internationally recognized festivals, active neighborhoods, unique restaurants, and a robust offering of diverse cultural and outdoor activities. UT is located within easy driving distance to the Great Smoky Mountains, Asheville, Atlanta, and Nashville. Knoxville and the surrounding counties have a population of more than 850,000 people.