Classification & Title: 9361, Head (With Faculty Rank)

Working Title: Department Head

FLSA Status: Exempt

Term: 12-month tenured faculty

Reports to: Dean

College/Admin Unit: College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences

Campus Location: University of Minnesota Twin Cities, St. Paul

College Overview

The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) is composed of 27 programs: 14 undergraduate and 13 graduate programs in disciplines involving food, agricultural, and natural resource sciences. CFANS also has 10 research and outreach centers across Minnesota, plus the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the Bell Museum of Natural History, and dozens of interdisciplinary centers that span the college, the university, and the globe. Undergraduate enrollment in the college is about 2000 students. CFANS students are well-prepared for a diverse, multicultural workforce through the college's emphasis on experiential, interdisciplinary, and intercultural learning; internships and global perspectives.

At CFANS, we aim to inspire minds, nourish people, and enhance the natural environment, and we believe that's only possible if everyone feels seen, heard and respected. Our College embraces equity and diversity and prioritizes purpose-driven scientific discovery in order for us to build a better tomorrow, together. We align with the University of Minnesota in providing equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Department Overview

Ongoing collaborative and interdisciplinary efforts in basic and applied research have enabled the faculty in the Department of Plant Pathology to build a strong foundation of science in teaching, research, and extension. Faculty in the Department are nationally and internationally recognized for conducting research in genetics of disease resistance at the molecular, cellular, and whole plant levels; genomics/bioinformatics of plant-microbe interactions; plant disease management; microbial/microbiome ecology related to plant health and disease; biological control; population genetics; fungal biology and genomics; plant virology; bacteriology; nematology; forest health; wood deterioration; high throughput phenotyping; and global climate change. Exemplary education, based on research, is a departmental priority and faculty offer a rich and diverse portfolio of undergraduate and graduate courses, serving students within the Department and across the College and University through in-person and online delivery. The Department's strong graduate program delivers excellence in teaching, research, and mentoring that provides an enriching graduate experience. Graduates move on to careers in agriculture and related industries, public agencies, academia, and private consulting. The Department has access to state-of-the-art facilities including plant growth facilities with classrooms, greenhouses, and a biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) plant pathology quarantine greenhouse and laboratory, along with adjacent research plots that support both conventional and organic production systems. Other resources include the Minnesota Supercomputer Institute and Biodale (a consortium of University of Minnesota research service facilities) that provide state-of-the-art genomic, imaging, and mass-spectrometry facilities. Ten unique research and outreach centers throughout Minnesota enhance the Department's research infrastructure. Adjunct faculty from the USDA-ARS Cereal Disease Laboratory, USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station, and USDA-ARS Plant Science Research Unit, located on campus, support the mission of the Department. A dedicated and professional team supports the Department's administrative, financial, and communication functions.

Department Mission: Conduct research, education, and extension focused on plant diseases, plant health, and the biology of plant-microbe interactions to ensure sustainability of agricultural, forest, and natural ecosystems for the benefit of society.

Position Overview

The University of Minnesota invites qualified candidates to apply for the position of Department Head with Faculty Rank within the Department of Plant Pathology. The Department Head reports to the Dean of CFANS and partners with University of Minnesota Extension to accomplish departmental goals and objectives and to deliver nationally and internationally recognized programs in teaching, research, extension, and outreach, including the work at affiliated centers.

The Department Head is the lead academic and strategic officer for the department who works to recruit, mentor, and retain outstanding faculty, graduate students, and academic staff in a set of related disciplines in addition to serving as the administrative leader of departmental programs. In collaboration with college support divisions, the Department Head has responsibility for planning, fiscal management, personnel, and facilities. The Head actively supports the securing of sufficient resources for the department to strengthen and broaden its mission, nurture cross-functional relations at the University and beyond, and to advance its strong international reputation.

The Department aligns with collegiate and the larger University of Minnesota goals in providing equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Responsibilities

Department Leadership (75%)

• Provide instructional oversight of the assigned programs; oversee curriculum development; and encourage/support instructional excellence.
• Assess general education outcomes in core courses taught within the department.
• Initiate and facilitate the development of new academic programs and projects, as appropriate.
• Assign teaching responsibilities of department faculty, including teaching in interdepartmental programs, in cooperation with Heads of other departments, where appropriate.
• Monitor and advance the instructional and research excellence of the program(s) and address problems as they arise.
• Serve as an advocate for the department's faculty to the College leadership and the University community.
• Facilitate and oversee processes for faculty including recruitment, promotion, tenure, and professional leaves.
• Provide coaching and mentoring for all faculty in the program(s).
• Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, employers, and supporters, including alumni, business partners, and government and non-profit organizations that may assist in talent development, research, education, outreach, and extension.
• Provide supervision and direction to staff in the department administrative office.
• Lead recruitment efforts for faculty and specialized staff.
• In conjunction with the Dean and the Chief Financial Officer, develop budget and resources plans related to staffing and infrastructure.
• Administer and manage the allocation of departmental resources (fiscal, human, facilities, and capital).
• Manage daily operations of the department.
• Provide leadership in procurement of grant and endowment funding for support of departmental and faculty programs and assist with fundraising efforts.
• Participate in the development of policy and strategic planning in the college.
• In conjunction with CFANS human resources (HR), work with employees to address misconduct or performance concerns in a timely manner.
• Respond to academic questions from students and resolve any academic issues; fulfilling Title IX mandated reporting obligations including escalating concerns to EO/AA and HR, as appropriate.
• Actively sponsor diversity, inclusion and equity working towards fulfillment of department/unit and College goals.

Faculty Responsibilities (20%):

• As agreed upon following discussion with the Dean, teach an appropriate number of courses relevant to the size and scope of the department.
• Participate in research and scholarly activities within the discipline.
• Participate in University and community service activities as appropriate.

Service Delivery and Professional Development (5%):

• Stay abreast of current developments in leadership and relevant pedagogy by participating in continuing education and training opportunities.
• Regularly and actively participate in Department, College, and University events and meetings.
• Stay current in personal areas of scholarship and research.

Appointment:

This is a 100%-time, twelve-month annually renewable administrative appointment, with an initial appointment period of three years, and a 12-month tenured faculty position as a Professor in the Department. Reappointment is contingent upon a comprehensive administrative review and evaluation. Position is available immediately. Salary is negotiable and carries an administrative augmentation. The Department Head is responsible administratively to the Dean of CFANS, and is a member of the college's leadership council.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in plant pathology or a plant science or microbiological field directly related to research and teaching activities within the Department of Plant Pathology with demonstrated potential to achieve the rank of associate or full professor with tenure prior to appointment having demonstrated excellence in research, teaching and leadership to be eligible to successfully obtain tenure at the rank of full professor at the University of Minnesota.
• Commitment to strong disciplinary and interdisciplinary teaching and learning, research and discovery, and outreach and service. Proven record of support of successful undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Minimum of eight (8) years of professional experience after the completion of the doctoral degree.
• Minimum of 3 years of supervisory/leadership experience including fiscal management.
• Record of excellence in teaching/research/discovery as well as engagement/outreach productivity.
• Proven record of achievement in leadership and the ability to develop and describe a vision in alignment with the organization's goals and policies.
• Record of publications in the field in peer-reviewed academic journals.
• Evidence of ability to pursue and obtain competitive funding.
• Experience with formal classroom teaching or Extension/outreach teaching
• Demonstrated commitment to advancing and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among faculty, staff, and students.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to operate strategically to effectively promote and market the unique academic programs offered in Plant Pathology for increased student enrollment and partnerships in the college, university and community.
• Evidence of the ability to communicate effectively to a wide diversity of audiences.
• A record of implementing innovative and inclusive teaching and pedagogy using multiple platforms.
• Evidence of effective mentoring students and/or staff.
• Demonstrated skill in fostering linkages with other disciplines and building program partnerships.
• Evidence of organizing personnel and resources to successfully obtain large, multi-institutional, nation and international grants.
• A record of forming positive relationships with varied internal and external stakeholders.
• Record of commitment to recruitment, development and retention of a diverse, high-quality faculty student body and staff.
  

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Required Application Materials:

• A cover letter clearly indicating how the applicant addresses the required and preferred qualifications
• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of philosophy of leadership and vision as it relates to the future of the Department of Plant Pathology (not to exceed 2 pages).
• Names, addresses and email contact information for three (3) professional references that will be contacted if you are deemed a final candidate
• Diversity Statement* (please see instructions below)

* Teaching and research statements should be included in your cover letter (one page each). Each statement should highlight accomplishments, experience, and interests.

PLEASE: Combine all parts of the application (i.e., letter, CV, statements, etc.) into a single document before uploading.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Anna Lee (leex6681@umn.edu)

The priority deadline for this position is June 13, 2024. Review of applications will begin in late June and continue until the position is filled.

Instructions for Diversity Statement (include with application materials)*

Applicants are required to submit a diversity statement for this position. CFANS values and is actively invested in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout all of our academic programs. Please review the CFANS definition of diversity and the DEI strategic plan for the college.

Please provide a diversity statement that details your professional experiences in DEI. Experiences may include:

• Working with diverse communities or local organizations
• Embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into the curriculum
• Embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into your research
• Your own educational experiences, such as courses or workshops you have participated in, and how you anticipate incorporating what you have learned in your future work

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).