Plant Science and Landscape Architecture Department Head | University

Department Head

The Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at the University of Connecticut seeks an inspirational, dynamic, and visionary individual to serve as Department Head. The role combines faculty responsibilities with administrative leadership of a highly ranked and productive department, aligned with the strategic priorities of the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources and the University.

The Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture (PSLA) is one of eight academic units within the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. PSLA comprises 22 faculty members—16 tenure‑track and 6 non‑tenure track— and 14 staff professionals. The department offers B.S. degrees in Plant Science and Landscape Architecture, M.S. and Ph.D. programs, as well as an Associate of Applied Science degree in the fields of Ornamental Horticulture, Turfgrass Management, and Sustainable Crop Production.

PSLA supports graduate and undergraduate education, public outreach, and nationally competitive research programs.

• Provide academic and administrative leadership to support and promote excellence in the department’s teaching, research, extension, and service missions.
• Oversee academic affairs, personnel, budgeting, and facility management, ensuring efficient and transparent departmental operations.
• Lead strategic planning and assessment to align departmental goals with the missions of the college and the university.
• Develop and implement effective recruitment and retention programs to increase undergraduate and graduate student enrollment.
• Teach at least one undergraduate course and participate in research and/or extension programs.
• Represent and advocate for the department within the college, university, state, and professional and international communities.
• Ensure compliance with university, college, and union policies and procedures, and develop departmental policies as appropriate.
• Collaborate with the Director of Development to engage alumni, donors, and stakeholders in advancement activities.
• Foster faculty, staff, and graduate student success through mentoring, annual evaluations, and support for professional development.
• Build a collegial and collaborative departmental culture, encouraging interdisciplinary engagement within and beyond the department.
• Maintain compliance for and support the accreditation of the professional Bachelor’s in Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA) degree granted by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB).
• Promote innovation and entrepreneurship in academic, research, and extension initiatives.
• Develop, supervise, and support an effective staff structure to ensure smooth departmental operations.
• Oversee department facilities to ensure efficient operation and alignment with program needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of departmental and CAHNR missions.