Plant Sciences Department Head: Lead Teaching, Research & Growth

California State University, Chico; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 175,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo seeks a tenured Department Head at the rank of Full Professor to lead the Plant Sciences Department. The role includes teaching, research, and service with a commitment to inclusive excellence, program development, and campus collaboration.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The position emphasizes leadership in curriculum, accreditation, and engagement with industry, alumni, and donors, along with strategic planning and resource

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in crop science, plant science, horticultural science, entomology, plant pathology or closely related field
• Distinguished record of achievement for tenured Full Professor within Plant Sciences
• Demonstrated leadership and management of students, faculty, staff, and community
• Ability to cultivate an inclusive learning and working environment for all
• Strong professional record including publications, grants, presentations and interdisciplinary projects
• Commitment to teaching excellence across modalities
• Broad knowledge of plant sciences in crop science, horticultural science, entomology, plant pathology
• Experience in collaborative priority setting, faculty mentorship and development
• Experience advancing CAFES’ mission through teaching, research, and advancement
• Ability to manage resources and solve problems creatively
• Ability to engage Plant Sciences stakeholders for research and industry initiatives
• Evidence of leading institutional advancement and fundraising
• Outstanding written and verbal English communication skills

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and potentially graduate courses in Plant Sciences
• Engage in scholarly activities (research, publishing, presenting, grant writing)
• Mentor students and participate in committees and university activities
• Lead department operations including budget, facilities, curriculum development and strategic planning
• Oversee hiring, development, mentoring, and workload of faculty and staff
• Engage in advancement and fundraising initiatives

Education

Ph.D. in crop science or plant science or horticultural science or entomology or plant pathology

Job description

Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo seeks a tenured Department Head at the rank of Full Professor to lead the Plant Sciences Department. The role includes teaching, research, and service with a commitment to inclusive excellence, program development, and campus collaboration.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The position emphasizes leadership in curriculum, accreditation, and engagement with industry, alumni, and donors, along with strategic planning and resource