Dean - College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 170,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln invites applications for the Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. The dean will lead a diverse faculty and staff, shape innovative academic programs, and foster partnerships with industry and Nebraska communities to prepare graduates for evolving futures.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate visionary academic leadership, fundraising success, and a deep commitment to student success and interdisciplinary collaboration across

Qualifications

• Minimum qualifications include a doctoral degree and a record of teaching, research, and/or extension with tenure.
• Demonstrated leadership in higher education and collaborative program development.
• Commitment to student success, faculty development, and interdisciplinary learning.

Responsibilities

• Provide visionary, collaborative leadership for CASNR and set a bold strategic direction.
• Strengthen partnerships with industry, alumni, and community stakeholders.
• Oversee curriculum development, faculty excellence, and resource stewardship.
• Advance student success, experiential learning, and workforce readiness.

Skills

Academic leadership

Fundraising

Strategic planning

Budget management

Curriculum development

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Doctoral degree in relevant field

Job description

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Employment Website

Dean - College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

Position Information

EEO Statement

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See: Notice of Nondiscrimination

Working Title Dean - College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

Department College of Ag Sci & Nat Res-0787

Requisition Number F_260132

Posting Open Date 10/23/2026

Application Review Date 12/07/2026

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled Yes

The Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources ( IANR ) at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is pleased to announce the launch of a national search for the next dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources ( CASNR ).

The search represents an exciting opportunity to identify a visionary, collaborative leader who will build on CASNR’s longstanding excellence in teaching and learning while shaping the future of higher education in agriculture, natural resources, food systems, and related fields. The university seeks a dean who embraces innovation, fosters transdisciplinary collaboration, champions student success, entrepreneurship, and ensures graduates are prepared to lead in emerging industries and an increasingly dynamic global workforce.

Working in partnership with faculty, staff, students, alumni, Nebraska communities, employers, and industry and education leaders, the dean will advance a bold vision for a learner-centered, future-focused college that cultivates talent, expands opportunity, and develops the next generation of leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and change-makers. The dean will help position CASNR as a national model for educational excellence by advancing innovative academic programs, strengthening pathways to student success, and creating transformative learning experiences that prepare graduates to address complex challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

The next dean will provide leadership for the college’s academic enterprise, with a focus on:

• Advancing innovative, future-focused academic programs and student learning that anticipate evolving workforce, industry, and societal needs.
• Enhancing student success, retention, engagement, belonging, well-being, and career readiness through evidence-based practices and a commitment to student-centered learning across the curriculum.
• Expanding experiential and applied learning opportunities, including internships, undergraduate research, industry partnerships, service learning, global experiences, and other high-impact educational practices for all students.
• Strengthening strategic partnerships with employers, alumni, commodity groups, Nebraska communities, and other stakeholders to ensure graduates are prepared for current and emerging careers.
• Advancing a comprehensive talent development pipeline by strengthening pathways from K-12 education through community colleges and university partnerships, creating opportunities that inspire, recruit, retain, and develop future students and leaders.
• Supporting faculty excellence in teaching, mentoring, advising, and curriculum innovation while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and academic excellence.
• Promoting transdisciplinary learning that equips students to address complex challenges related to food systems, agriculture, natural resources, human and environmental health, and emerging technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence, automation, etc.).
• Cultivating a culture of innovation, curiosity, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning across the college.
• Strengthening CASNR’s reputation as a destination of choice for students seeking transformative educational experiences and meaningful careers that positively impact Nebraska, the US, and the world.

UNL offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, commensurate with the successful candidate’s background and experience.

Minimum Required Qualifications

• A doctoral degree in a field of study represented within the departments of CASNR.
• A record of excellence in teaching, research, and/or extension; and scholarship commensurate with appointment in a CASNR unit at the rank of professor with tenure.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in higher education at the department/school/center level or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred candidates will:

• Be able to demonstrate that they are visionary leaders with proven skills in academic administration, resource management, and/or program formation and review.
• Have an administrative record at an institution of higher education that demonstrates strong collaborative academic management experience, creative and strategic thinking, sound judgement, excellent analytical skills, and the ability and courage to make difficult but informed decisions.
• Show a commitment to and experience in supporting and cultivating an accomplished and productive faculty. A passion for excellence and integrity must be paired with an ability to inspire and motivate.
• Have experience with curriculum development and a commitment to excellence in undergraduate, graduate, and pre-professional education.
• Have experience in fostering linkages between campus, community stakeholders, and industry partners.
• Be sensitive to the perspectives and values of faculty, staff, and students; have a commitment to transparent leadership and shared governance; and possess the ability to collaborate effectively with a broad range of constituencies.
• Experience with effective development, fundraising, and entrepreneurial activities.
• Have a distinguished record of success in obtaining external funding.

Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required

Criminal History Background Check Required

Job Category Administrative

Job Type 12 Month (Faculty Only)

Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? No