Deputy Dean (Research & Sustainability)

Sunway University; Selangor; On-site; MYR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious academic institution is seeking a Deputy Dean (Research & Sustainability) to provide academic leadership and drive research excellence within the School of American Education. The role entails overseeing postgraduate programmes, fostering collaborations, promoting sustainability initiatives, and ensuring quality governance. Ideal candidates should possess a PhD, an outstanding research track record, and a minimum of 3-5 years in academic leadership. The position offers a dynamic platform to contribute to future-focused education and sustainability efforts.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of academic governance, research funding, and quality assurance.
• Established academic credibility with high-impact publications.
• Proven leadership experience in sustainability initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic leadership for research and sustainability.
• Lead and mentor research teams to enhance their capacity.
• Promote interdisciplinary, collaborative research initiatives.
• Ensure strong governance and compliance with policies.

Skills

Leadership in research management

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Excellent communication

Sustainability integration

Education

PhD

Job description

Deputy Dean (Research & Sustainability) (80099)

Sunway University is seeking a Deputy Dean (Research & Sustainability) within the School of American Education to provide academic leadership, drive research excellence and postgraduate development, integrate sustainability, strengthen partnerships, ensure governance quality, and contribute to teaching within the School.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic leadership for research, research degrees, ethics, and sustainability at School and University levels.
• Contribute actively to School Management and advise the Dean on research and sustainability priorities.
• Lead and mentor research and sustainability teams to build capacity and excellence.
• Strengthen the School’s research profile, outputs, and impact.
• Oversee postgraduate research programmes and research degree quality.
• Support faculty in securing internal and external research funding.
• Promote interdisciplinary, collaborative, and high-impact research initiatives.
• Develop and implement School-level research and sustainability strategies aligned with University goals.
• Drive the integration of sustainability and planetary health principles into research, education, and operations.
• Monitor and report on research and sustainability KPIs.

Engagement & External Relations

• Build partnerships with industry, government, community, and international collaborators.
• Represent the University at internal and external meetings, conferences, and events.
• Enhance the visibility and impact of the School’s research and sustainability activities.

Administration & Quality Assurance

• Ensure strong governance, policy compliance, ethics oversight, and quality assurance.
• Oversee research data management, reporting, and contributions to rankings (e.g. MyRA, QS, THE).

Teaching-centered duties

• Develop and teach undergraduate and graduate courses, utilising innovative and effective teaching methods.
• Mentor and advise students, providing guidance on academic and career pathways.
• Contribute to the academic community through active research, publications, and participation in professional conferences.
• Collaborate with colleagues to enhance the department's curriculum and contribute to interdisciplinary projects across the university.

REQUIREMENTS

• Possess a PhD and an outstanding research track record.
• Minimum 3 to 5 years of experience as an academic Head of Department, or equivalent.
• Demonstrate established academic credibility, evidenced by high‑impact publications and other recognised scholarly contributions.
• Proven leadership experience in research management and/or sustainability initiatives.
• Strong understanding of academic governance, research funding, and quality assurance.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build collaborations across diverse stakeholders.
• A passion for sustainability, interdisciplinary innovation, and future-focused education.

We appreciate the interest of all applicants for this position. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.