The College of Education at the University of South Carolina invites applications for the newly-created position of Associate Dean for Research and Innovation (R&I). The successful applicant will assume responsibility for overseeing the College’s diverse research programs that include basic, applied, and translational research; and for promoting innovative research collaborations across departments and colleges, as well as with schools, agencies, private industry, and other organizations outside the university. This individual will also lead efforts to fund and expand the number of full-time doctoral assistantships and fellowships in the College. Duties will include serving as the College’s liaison to research units within the university and to external funding agencies, advising the Dean and key administrators on matters involving research in the College; and communicating information about faculty and student research, innovation, and creativity nationally and to key constituencies. The Associate Dean for R&I will work closely with the College’s Director of Grants and Contracts to facilitate the preparation and timely submission of funding proposals, to ensure IRB compliance, and to advise department chairs regarding time and effort of specific faculty members in funded research endeavors. The individual assuming this position will also develop and maintain an active three-year orientation program for new faculty members that will support and encourage research, innovation, and creative scholarly endeavors. He or she will maintain his or her own research program, including funded research, and will serve as research mentor to other faculty members.

The University of South Carolina is the only Carnegie-designated “highest research activity” R1 doctoral university in South Carolina. The College of Education is nationally known for research, innovation and scholarly work in education, policy, social justice, and professional development that combines theoretical depth with practical impact. College research includes international focus and collaborations. The Associate Dean for R&I will be joining the College leadership team at a time of optimism and opportunities for growth. A new faculty-developed strategic plan stresses “prominence through innovative and impactful research” as one of six key areas, and specifically focuses on “increasing research productivity” and “building robust and thriving doctoral programs” as immediate goals.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • An earned doctorate from an accredited institution in one of the disciplines of the college, or a related field;
  • A demonstrated record of scholarship that merits a tenured faculty appointment as an associate or full professor;
  • Evidence of an established record of mentorship and a desire to build a collaborative spirit within the college;
  • Knowledge and appreciation of multiple types of research/creative activity (including multiple paradigms);
  • Experience and success in obtaining external funding;
  • A demonstrated understanding of research/extramural funding governing policies;
  • A commitment to serving diverse constituencies in a shared governance environment;
  • A record of professorial excellence (teaching, scholarship, and service);
  • Successful supervisory experience;
  • Excellent written, interpersonal, and oral communication skills;
  • A desire to work in a team-based, dynamic environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience in designing and leading new initiatives or programs to advance the mission of an academic department or college;
  • Successful experience in an academic administrative position (e.g., as an assistant chair, program director, center director, etc.);
  • Experience including budget management, mentoring faculty, and supervising professional staff;
  • Evidence of being a creative thinker, and an appreciation of interdisciplinary research.

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Application:

The College of Education application process is conducted online at https://uscjobs.sc.edu;  please reference Requisition Number 011061 or visit this link. Application materials accepted online include: (1) a letter of application that addresses the role of research in an R1 college of education, the interchange of research and practice, the roles of diverse types of research in a college of education, and research interests and achievements that demonstrate preparation and qualification to become a visionary and innovative leader in this environment; (2) a current curriculum vita; (3) list of at least three professional references to include e-mail addresses and phone numbers; (4) a copy of unofficial academic transcript for all degrees earned (official copies will be required of finalists); and (5) two sample publications or pieces of scholarly work. Review of completed applications will begin November 1, 2016 and continue until the position is filled.

Inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Michael Seaman, Search Committee Chair, mseaman@sc.edu. 

The University of South Carolina has a strong commitment to the principles of diversity and is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The University is also responsive to the needs of dual career families.