Department Chair for Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science

Missouri S&T; Rolla (MO); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) seeks a visionary Department Chair for Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science to guide a rapidly growing program. The chair will set strategic direction, advance teaching, and expand research credibility through collaboration with industry and government partners.

The role anchors major investments in facilities, including a multi-million-dollar reactor upgrade and modernized laboratories, and the PowerPlex initiative to develop

Job description

Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T), one of the nation’s premier technological research universities, invites nominations and applications for the position of Department Chair of Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science (NERS).

This is a rare leadership opportunity for a forward-looking academic to guide a department poised for significant growth in both student enrollment and research activity. The next chair will play a central role in shaping the future trajectory of NERS at a pivotal moment of institutional investment and programmatic expansion.

The department is entering a period of rapid advancement, supported by a recently approved multi-million-dollar investment to upgrade and expand its 200 kW MTR-type nuclear reactor. Complementing this reactor upgrade are newly modernized teaching laboratory facilities, including a NuScale E2 Simulator, positioning the department at the forefront of experiential nuclear engineering education.

Academic Excellence

Growing in National Interest

Equally notable is the department’s exceptional student momentum. Undergraduate enrollment has doubled in less than three years, reflecting growing national interest in nuclear engineering and the department’s strong reputation for academic excellence. The department attracts highly talented students, with the most recent entering class posting an average ACT score of 29.3. Beyond the classroom, NERS students are highly engaged in outreach initiatives, design competitions, professional organizations, and leadership activities, contributing significantly to the department’s culture and visibility.

Advancement & Development

The “PowerPlex” Initiative

A key strategic priority for the incoming chair will be leadership of the university’s “PowerPlex” initiative — an ambitious effort to establish advanced nuclear capabilities on campus, including the development of a microreactor and integrated thermal energy management systems. This initiative is supported by a newly formed advisory board composed of leading experts from industry and government.

Building and Expanding Program Prominence

The department and university further benefit from a recently established SUPER agreement with Idaho National Laboratory, creating expanded opportunities for collaborative research, workforce development, and engagement.

The successful candidate will join a dynamic academic environment with the resources, partnerships, and institutional commitment necessary to build a nationally and internationally prominent program.