Department Head of 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 is seeking an innovative, dynamic, and collaborative person who will provide intellectual and strategic leadership for the department. The successful department head will prioritize the success of the team and department over personal accomplishments and will appreciate the unique contributions of agricultural, biological, and biomedical engineering research and education, fostering collaboration among faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.

The incumbent will model the university’s core values of accountability, inclusiveness, integrity, respect, and social responsibility, promoting teamwork and collaboration to enhance creativity, innovation, impact, and belonging.

Biological Systems Engineering consists of over 250 undergraduate and graduate students, 38 faculty members, 16 staff members, and 8 postdoctoral fellows committed to high‑quality, innovative research and scholarship, accessible student‑focused education, and impactful Extension programming. The department is positioned for transdisciplinary work at the intersection of biological systems, agriculture, engineering, and biomedical research, working closely with the College of Engineering and the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

The head of the Department of Biological Systems Engineering is charged with coordinating and promoting all aspects of the land‑grant mission within the department. Responsibilities include leading all BSE programming and initiatives, managing financial and physical resources responsibly to maximize effectiveness, synthesizing a shared vision with faculty, staff, and stakeholders, and ensuring continuous strategic renewal. This is a 70% administrative appointment, with the remaining 30% negotiable based on research, teaching, and Extension interests.

The position is located in Lincoln, Nebraska, and will be appointed to a five‑year renewable term subject to satisfactory annual reviews and a formal reappointment process.

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

• A record of excellence in research evidenced by a portfolio of publications, extramural funding, and collaboration.
• A record of excellence in teaching in formal (e.g., classroom) and/or informal (e.g., Extension) settings.
• An ability to engage and collaborate effectively with a broad range of constituencies.
• Evidence of using data and/or fact‑based information to navigate complex situations and make strategic decisions.
• An understanding of systems and networks that encourage and support entrepreneurial activities.
• Sensitivity to the perspectives and values of faculty, staff, and students.

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 (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

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