Vice President for Research, UNLV Provost [R0141395]

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas invites applications for Vice President for Research, UNLV Provost [R0141395]

ROLE of the POSITION

The Vice President for Research (VPR) is central to UNLV's mission of fostering a vibrant ecosystem of research and scholarship that addresses the critical issues of our time. By championing the expansion of our research capabilities, enhancing our scholarly productivity, and securing our position as a leader in impactful research initiatives, the VPR plays a pivotal role in the university's pursuit of excellence. This individual will be tasked with articulating a clear and ambitious vision for research at UNLV, one that not only aligns with the university's strategic goals but also propels the institution to new heights in the competitive landscape of global research. Through a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and integrity, the VPR will lead efforts to elevate UNLV's research profile, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of addressing societal needs and advancing knowledge.

In this capacity, the VPR will oversee a broad spectrum of responsibilities, from strategic research planning to the development of policies and practices that promote ethical research and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Working closely with faculty, staff, and external partners, the VPR will foster an environment that nurtures interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral collaborations, aiming to solve complex problems through innovative research. The VPR's leadership will be instrumental in attracting, retaining, and supporting a diverse cadre of top-tier researchers and scholars, thereby enhancing the university's intellectual capital and research output. By doing so, the VPR will not only contribute to the university's national and international reputation but also drive meaningful impact in the wider community and beyond.

Core responsibilities and expectations of the position include:

• Strategic Vision and Leadership: As the architect of UNLV's research strategy, the VPR will implement forward-thinking initiatives that align with the university's mission, anticipate global research trends, and catalyze growth in research funding, output, and innovation.
• Infrastructure Development and Support: The VPR will oversee the enhancement of cutting-edge research facilities and infrastructure, ensuring the university's research environment fosters groundbreaking endeavors through effective management of grants, contracts, compliance, and safety protocols.
• Research Excellence and Faculty Development: In collaboration with academic leaders, the VPR enriches the research and academic landscape by supporting faculty research opportunities, fostering development, and promoting innovative interdisciplinary projects that enhance academic distinction.
• Research Integrity and Ethics: Upholding the highest standards, the VPR ensures all research activities adhere to stringent ethical practices and regulations, promoting accountability and excellence across the university's research enterprise.
• Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Initiatives: The VPR is pivotal in nurturing and expanding partnerships across academic disciplines, industries, and organizations, leveraging these relationships to enhance UNLV's research portfolio and address societal challenges through innovation.
• Advocacy for Research: As a champion of the university's research mission, the VPR will enhance UNLV's visibility and reputation, engaging with diverse stakeholders to forge strong relationships that advance the university's research goals.

Research at UNLV stands as a cornerstone of Nevada's economic prosperity and sustainability, embodying a critical component of the university's ambitious Top Tier 2.0 strategic plan. Through strategic academic and research collaborations, UNLV is at the forefront of creating essential knowledge that not only addresses humanity's most pressing challenges but also significantly enhances the health, well-being, and cultural richness of the Las Vegas area, the state of Nevada, and beyond. This vital research enterprise not only contributes to teaching by integrating cutting-edge discoveries into the learning experience but also provides immediate access to groundbreaking information and valuable perspectives on issues of local, national, and global significance.

As an institution recognized with the Carnegie R1 classification, UNLV has experienced steady growth in its research endeavors, with research expenditures reaching $47.5 million in research funding and awards totaling $81 million in 2021-22. Furthermore, the expansion of doctoral programs across various fields has culminated in the awarding of 250 doctoral degrees in the 2022-23 academic year, underscoring UNLV's role in cultivating the next generation of scholars and researchers. UNLV is dedicated to bolstering its research infrastructure, with plans to continue investing in the 84 staff members within the Division of Research, as well as in the faculties, schools, colleges, and the broader community, thereby reinforcing its position as a leader in research and innovation.

In addition to these achievements, UNLV is actively enhancing its research capabilities through the development of state-of-the-art facilities such as the new Advanced Engineering Building and the adoption of emerging technologies, aiming to provide its researchers with the tools necessary to push the boundaries of knowledge further. The university's commitment to interdisciplinary and cross-sector partnerships is paving the way for breakthroughs that not only have academic merit but also practical applications, contributing to societal progress and economic vitality. By fostering an environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, UNLV is not just contributing to the advancement of research but is also playing a pivotal role in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for Nevada and the world at large.

UNLV is in search of a dynamic leader distinguished by their record in research management and strategic leadership to shape the future of research within the university. The ideal candidate will possess a robust history of fostering innovation and steering research activities that align with institutional goals. This role demands a visionary capable of identifying and capitalizing on opportunities for growth, advancing the university's research portfolio, and enhancing its contribution to global knowledge and societal well-being.

The successful applicant will demonstrate a deep commitment to the advancement of diverse research disciplines, underpinned by a track record of securing substantial external funding from a variety of sources, including government agencies, industry partners, and foundations. A Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree is essential, reflecting a foundation of academic excellence and the ability to engage deeply with the research community.

We are looking for an individual who embodies innovation, entrepreneurship, and a visionary outlook. The candidate should be recognized for their transparent and creative problem-solving abilities, with a strong service orientation and a passion for building collaborative, interdisciplinary research environments. Prior administrative and leadership experience in a research-centric organization is crucial, showcasing a talent for inspiring, motivating, and developing staff through inclusive and strategic leadership.

A commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the research community is another key requirement for this position. The Vice President for Research will uphold the highest standards of excellence and integrity in all aspects of their work and relationships. With outstanding communication skills, the candidate will effectively articulate the value and impact of research initiatives to a wide audience, including state lawmakers, federal agency representatives, and civic and business leaders, ensuring robust advocacy for the university's research mission.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

This position requires a Ph.D. or other research-based terminal degree from an accredited university as well as a minimum of five years of experience leading a complex research organization, including at least two years of management / supervisory experience. Candidate must demonstrate a high potential to carry out the principal duties and responsibilities of this position.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience serving as the chief research officer at a Carnegie R1 research institution.

COMMITMENT to DIVERSITY

The successful candidate will demonstrate support for diversity, equity, and inclusiveness as well as participate in maintaining a respectful, positive work environment.

SALARY RANGE

Salary competitive with those at similarly situated.

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT UNLV

• Generous compensation packages, up to 48 days of paid time off, sick leave, and holidays
• Excellent health insurance including medical, dental and vision
• No state income tax
• Comprehensive retirement plans and voluntary benefits programs
• Tuition discounts at Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) schools
• Tuition discounts for spouses, domestic partners, and dependents

PERKS

• Flexible work schedule (depending on your department)
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs
• Personal and professional development opportunities
• UNLV athletics ticket discounts
• Employee discount at UNLV's Student Wellness Recreation Center
• Statewide employee purchase program discounts
• RebelCard discounts on and off campus
• Wellness programming for all UNLV faculty and staff at no cost
• Opportunity for career advancements to leadership roles

HOW TO APPLY

Submit a letter of interest, a detailed resume listing qualifications and experience, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted. References will not be contacted until the search chair notifies you in advance.

Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience, with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications because this is the information on which the initial review of materials will be based.

Although this position will remain open until filled, review of candidates' materials will begin on Monday, April 1, 2024.

Materials should be addressed to Shawn Gerstenberger, Search Committee Chair, and must be submitted through Workday, as we do not accept emailed materials. For assistance with the application process, please contact UNLV Human Resources at (702) 895-3504 or [email protected] .

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES

UNLV employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the "Find Jobs" process within Workday to find and apply for jobs at UNLV and other NSHE Institutions. Once you log into Workday, type "Find Jobs" in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, R0141395 in the search box.

If you complete an application outside of the internal application process, your application will be returned and you will have to reapply as an internal applicant which may delay your application.

PROFILE of the UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1957, UNLV is a doctoral-degree-granting institution of approximately 30,000 students and more than 3,600 faculty and staff. To date, UNLV has conferred more than 152,000 degrees, producing more than 130,000 alumni around the world. UNLV is classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as an R1 research university with very high research activity. The university is committed to recruiting and retaining top students and faculty, educating the region's diversifying population and workforce, driving economic activity through increased research and community partnerships, and creating an academic health center for Southern Nevada that includes the launch of a new UNLV School of Medicine. UNLV is located on a 332-acre main campus and two satellite campuses in Southern Nevada.

Here at UNLV, we have come together and created one of the most affirmative and dynamic academic environments in the country. UNLV sits in the top spot in U.S. News & World Report's annual listing of the nation's most diverse universities for undergraduates. The university has ranked in the top ten since the rankings debuted more than a decade ago. We continue to show our commitment to serving our wonderfully diverse population and building the future for Las Vegas and Nevada.

For more information, visit us on line at: http://www.unlv.edu .

EEO/AA STATEMENT

The University of Nevada - Las Vegas (UNLV) is committed to providing a place of work and learning free of discrimination on the basis of a person's age (40 or older), disability, whether actual or perceived by others (including service-connected disabilities), gender (including pregnancy related conditions), military status or military obligations, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, race (including hair texture and protected hairstyles such as natural hairstyles, afros, bantu knots, curls, braids, locks and twists), color, or religion (protected classes). Discrimination on the basis of a protected class, including unlawful harassment, which is a form of discrimination, is illegal under federal and state law. Where unlawful discrimination is found to have occurred, UNLV will act to stop the unlawful discrimination, to prevent its recurrence, to remedy its effects, and to discipline those responsible.

TITLE IX STATEMENT

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any education program or activity that it operates. Non-discrimination on the basis of sex is mandated by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. §§ 1681 et seq.) and the corresponding implementation regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106). The University's commitment to nondiscrimination in its education programs and activities extends to applicants for admission and employment. Inquiries concerning the application of these provisions may be referred to: Michelle Sposito, J.D., Title IX Coordinator, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Box 451062, Las Vegas, NV 89154-1062, Frank and Estella Beam Hall (BEH) Room 553, Telephone: (702) 895-4055; Email: [email protected] , or to The Assistant Secretary of the United States Department of Education, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-1100; Telephone: 1-800-421-3481 FAX: 202-453-6012; TDD: 1-800-877-8339; Email: [email protected] ; or to both. 

Information pertaining to the University's grievance procedures and grievance process, including how to report or file a complaint of sex discrimination, how to report or file a formal complaint of sexual harassment, and how the University will respond can be found online at the Office of Equal Employment & Title IX webpage.

SAFETY AND SECURITY STATEMENT

UNLV is committed to assisting all members of the UNLV community in providing for their own safety and security. The Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Safety Report compliance document is available online.

JOB CATEGORY

Administrative Faculty

Required Attachment(s)

Submit a letter of interest, a detailed resume listing qualifications and experience, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted.

UNLV is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action educator and employer committed to achieving excellence through diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, age, creed, national origin, veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, or any other factor protected by anti-discrimination laws. The University of Nevada, Las Vegas employs only United States citizens and non-citizens lawfully authorized to work in the United States. Women, under-represented groups, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.