The Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln invites nominations and applications for the position of Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology. We seek a creative, dynamic, compassionate, and collaborative person who will provide strategic and innovative leadership and put the success of the department above their individual accomplishments. We are looking for a strong and inspiring leader who understands university teaching, research, and Extension and uses their knowledge and skills to help the department maximize its impact. The successful candidate will be one who appreciates the diversity and interdisciplinary nature of food science research and education and how faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders can work together to address the most important challenges facing society today.
Recognizing that diversity enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, IANR and the Department of Food Science and Technology are committed to creating research, learning, Extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of diversity. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, every person and every interaction are treated as important to our collective well-being and our ability to deliver on our mission. The Department of Food Science and Technology is home to 30 faculty members and is committed to being a global leader in advancing trans‐disciplinary approaches for safe, sustainable, and healthy foods through innovative research, teaching, and outreach.
This is a 12-month (calendar year), tenured, 100% administrative appointment. This position will be located in Lincoln, Nebraska. The department head will be appointed to a five-year renewable term, subject to satisfactory annual reviews and a formal reappointment process.
Required Qualifications
To be considered for the position, applicants must meet the following qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology, Engineering, Nutrition, or a closely related field.
- Accomplishments commensurate with a tenured faculty appointment in Food Science and Technology at the rank of full professor.
- Demonstrated ability to provide visionary leadership (including creating a shared vision and aligning resources to achieve strategic outcomes).
- A record of leadership and outcomes that demonstrates an abiding commitment to practices that enhance access, equity, inclusion, and belongingness.
- Exceptional skills in communication and interpersonal relations.
Preferred Qualifications
- A record of excellence in research and teaching.
- An ability to collaborate effectively with a broad range of constituencies.
- Evidence of navigating complex situations and making successful strategic decisions.
- Demonstrated encouragement and/or development of innovative leadership activities.
- Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.
- Sensitivity to the perspectives and values of students, staff, faculty, and stakeholders.
Application Process
The search advisory committee will continue to receive applications until the Head is selected. To ensure full consideration, nominations and applications should be submitted before February 19, 2024.
Questions and nominations can be directed in confidence to the co-chairs of the search committee:
Mark Stone, Ph.D.
Professor and Head, Biological Systems Engineering
mark.stone@unl.edu
Amanda Ramer-Tait, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Food Science and Technology
aramer-tait2@unl.edu
Applicants should go to https://employment.unl.edu, requisition F_240001. Click “Apply for this Job,” complete the information form, and attach the following documents:
- A letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the position, anticipated contributions, and vision.
- A statement describing your experience working in diverse teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to environments in which every person and every interaction matters (2 page maximum). See https://ianr.unl.edu/ongoing-searches for guidance in writing this statement.
- A detailed curriculum vitae.
- The names and contact information of five (5) professional references. References will be requested only of candidates who make the short list.
All candidate information will be held in strict confidence until the final stage of the search, at which time the express permission of finalists will be obtained before making their candidacy public. Candidates are urged to review all information and documents posted on the search website.
For questions and assistance with submitting the application, contact Rachel Szelag, Senior HR Specialist, at rszelag2@unl.edu or by phone at (402) 472-5730.
UNL offers an attractive compensation and benefits package commensurate with the successful candidate’s background and experience.
The University of Nebraska is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work and learning environment free from discrimination and harassment. UNL is dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and included.
