Department Head - Biological Systems Engineering

University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Nebraska-Lincoln invites applications for the position of Head of the Department of Biological Systems Engineering (BSE). The Head provides intellectual and strategic leadership, coordinating and promoting all aspects of the land‑grant mission from Lincoln, NE.

The 70% administrative appointment and 30% negotiable in research, teaching, or Extension interests offer leadership in a collaborative, dynamic environment with a five‑year renewable term and annual reviews.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a field relevant to the department.
• Accomplishments commensurate with a tenured faculty appointment at the rank of full professor.
• Demonstrated ability to create a shared vision and align resources for strategic outcomes.
• Evidence of leadership and outcomes that demonstrate commitment to access and belonging.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide intellectual and strategic leadership for BSE and coordinate department activities.
• Oversee financial and physical resources and promote the land‑grant mission.
• Lead engagement with faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders to align objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Communication

Collaboration

Diversity & inclusion

Education

Ph.D. in a field relevant to the department

Job description

Department Head – Biological Systems Engineering

The Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) at the University of Nebraska‑Lincoln invites applications for the position of Head of the Department of Biological Systems Engineering (BSE). IANR seeks an innovative, dynamic, and collaborative leader who will provide intellectual and strategic leadership for the department, driving excellence across the discovery‑to‑practice continuum.

Position Overview

The department head coordinates and promotes all aspects of the land‑grant mission, overseeing BSE’s three undergraduate degree programs (two through the College of Engineering, one through the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources). The role manages financial and physical resources, synthesizes a vision with faculty, staff, and stakeholders, and ensures that strategic objectives remain relevant and impactful. This is a 70% administrative appointment with 30% negotiable in research, teaching, or Extension interests. The position is located in Lincoln, Nebraska, and is a five‑year renewable term with annual reviews and a formal reappointment process.

Minimum Required Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in a field relevant to the department.
• Accomplishments commensurate with a tenured faculty appointment at the rank of full professor.
• Demonstrated ability to create a shared vision and align resources to achieve strategic outcomes.
• Evidence of leadership and outcomes that demonstrate a commitment to practices enhancing access and belonging.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent research record evidenced by publications, extramural funding, and collaboration.
• Strong teaching record in formal and/or informal settings.
• Ability to engage and collaborate with a broad range of constituencies.
• Experience using data or fact‑based information to navigate complex situations and make strategic decisions.
• Understanding of systems and networks that encourage entrepreneurial activities.
• Sensitivity to the perspectives and values of faculty, staff, and students.

Posted Salary

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

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, or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.