Assistant Dean of Academic and Faculty Affairs - School of Data Science

Description

About Us: The School of Data Science is a forward-thinking institution dedicated to advancing education and research in the dynamic field of data science. As a burgeoning school at the University of Virginia, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment where faculty and students can grow and thrive.

Position Overview: We seek an experienced and strategic-minded tenured professor to join our team as the Assistant Dean of Academic and Faculty Affairs. The Assistant Dean will also hold a tenured faculty position in the School of Data Science. Reporting to the Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs, the Assistant Dean will be pivotal in overseeing and managing aspects of the faculty life cycle (e.g., recruitment and professional development) and academic affairs (e.g., curricula oversight of graduate and undergraduate programs, strategic planning, oversight of day-to-day operations). The Assistant Dean holds a 5-year renewable administrative appointment for these duties. 

This position will collaborate closely with the Associate Dean of Academic and Faculty Affairs and other school leaders to achieve our unit's goals and objectives while ensuring adherence to university policies and procedures. This position will also hold expectations of teaching, mentoring students, and engaging in research.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Provide leadership and oversight for undergraduate and graduate academic programs within the School of Data Science, ensuring alignment with industry trends and academic standards. 
• Collaborate with faculty to develop and implement curriculum enhancements, new courses, and interdisciplinary initiatives. 
• Coordinate academic advising and work with student support services to enhance the student experience and promote student success. 
• Oversee faculty orientation and professional development programs, collaborating with central offices to enhance offerings and promote community-building. 
• Serve as a resource and advocate for faculty, offering support in conflict resolution, accommodations, and other sensitive issues. 
• Manage academic appointments, promotions, leaves, sabbaticals, and retirement transitions for faculty members. 
• Manage faculty recruitment processes, including drafting job advertisements, organizing search committees, and ensuring compliance with affirmative action procedures. 
• Administer the tenure process, refining evaluation protocols, and enforcing policies in accordance with university guidelines. 
• Maintain faculty records and databases, preparing reports for internal and external stakeholders as needed. 
• Support faculty members in their teaching and research endeavors, providing resources and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in a field related to Data Science 
• A demonstrated commitment to and record of teaching excellence 
• A demonstrated ability to secure research funding and a significant record of scholarly research 
• Demonstrated successful experience in implementing programs, policies, and procedures in academic and faculty affairs, as well as education at all levels. 
• Ability to effectively manage direct reports and lead in a highly team-oriented and interdisciplinary environment. 
• Expertise in and ability to develop clear written policies, procedures and directions. 
• Experience with academic administration, mentoring faculty, administratively supporting scholarly activity, and faculty professional development. 
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to serve as a trusted advisor and mentor to faculty members. 
• Knowledge of academic policies and procedures, including tenure processes and affirmative action requirements. 
• Ability to make data-driven recommendations for program improvement. 
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with experience promoting faculty diversity and supporting underrepresented groups. 
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. 

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physicians Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.

The University of Virginia offers confidential Dual Career Services to partners of incoming faculty candidates. To learn more, please visit dualcareer.virginia.edu