CHAIR, DEPT OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

The Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa seeks candidates for the position of Chair and Department Executive Officer, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The successful candidate will be a nationally prominent academic leader with a strong record of achievement in research, education, and mentorship. The UI Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology has a distinguished research and teaching faculty, and a nationally recognized research program, with outstanding faculty who are national and international leaders in their respective research areas. The department encompasses a diverse set of research programs spanning mechanisms of DNA repair, Gene Expression, Protein Trafficking, Signal Transduction, and Molecular Dynamics, Metabolism and Cellular Organization. Strong core facilities for protein crystallography, NMR, and single-molecule biochemistry underpin the research of the department. The department supports the training of medical students, educators, and researchers through its long-standing PhD graduate program, and the department serves as a home for undergraduate majors in Biochemistry.

The University of Iowa seeks a visionary leader for the department who serves as an advocate for the faculty, and represents the department in interactions with the college, UI Health Care, and the national scientific community. Responsibilities include faculty recruitment and appointments; oversight of all departmental educational and research programs; fiscal planning and management; and short- and long-term strategic planning. In addition, the chair is an important institutional leader, serving on the Enterprise Committee, which provides operational and strategic input to the Vice President for Medical Affairs and Dean.

The search committee will accept nominations and applications until the position is filled. Applications should include a current curriculum vitae and/or biosketch, as well as a cover letter outlining the candidate’s interest in the position, as well as the attributes and qualifications making them suitable for the role. Cover letters including statements on administration experience, teaching philosophy, faculty mentorship, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion are strongly encouraged. Confidential inquires regarding this position can be addressed to the search committee chair.

The Carver College of Medicine is part of a major research university and ranks among the top public medical schools surveyed by U.S. News and World Reports and by the National Institutes of Health for research funding. The College and the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics are equal partners in UI Health Care, and the hospital is one of the largest university-owned teaching hospitals in the United States. The University of Iowa is in Iowa City, a vibrant community located in the rolling hills of southeastern Iowa. The community offers excellent schools, quality entertainment, literary, musical and cultural opportunities, as well as Big 10 sporting events.

• Previous records consistent with appointment as a tenured professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. This includes a PhD or MD degree, or equivalent, and an outstanding record of accomplishments in research, teaching, and service.

• A demonstrated capacity to foster an environment where excellence in scholarship can flourish.


• A commitment to fostering racial, ethnic and gender diversity in students, staff and faculty.


• Experience and interest in developing and leading research and educational programs that foster a diverse workforce.


• A record of innovative research and the ability to provide effective administrative and fiscal leadership.


• Record of accomplishment for developing a research infrastructure and extramural funding.


• Excellent strategic skills, administrative experience and financial acumen.


• Excellent communication skills and demonstrated interpersonal skills, allowing for transparency, respect, effective problem resolution and ethical decision-making. 


• The ability to build and strengthen relationships within the UI Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, UI Health Care, and the State of Iowa.

• An interest in fostering interdisciplinary research programs.


• Expertise in biochemistry at the cellular and molecular level.


• An open and direct communication style. Collegial presence that encourages consensus building, collaboration and cooperation.

• Embracing diversity, able to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and civil manner while appreciating the unique contribution of individuals from varied cultures, race, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity across the Department and the institution.


• A strong work ethic with conscientious follow-through on tasks and commitments.


• A leadership style that assists others before oneself and holds others accountable to agreed upon objectives.


• A strong advocate for the Department, who negotiates well across all levels of the organization to support the Department's objectives.

To start the Online Application process for this position, click the "Apply for This Position" button located below the Contact Information.

The materials listed above are not part of any online process. Please send the materials to the contact information below.