Program Director, Doctor of Medical Science

Position Summary

The College of Health Professions at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science invites nominations and applications for a faculty member and Doctor of Medical Science Program Director within the Physician Assistant Department. The College seeks a strong educator who is committed to interprofessional education and interested in leading and shaping a new doctoral degree program for Physician Assistants. 

Who We Are

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA. 

Today, the university’s 6 colleges continue Dr. Franklin’s legacy through rigorous academics, pioneering research, and innovative community service. Our unique interprofessional education model allows students to learn from and with each other in a variety of settings, including our simulation labs, the student-led Interprofessional Community Clinic, and through partnerships with area hospitals and clinics. RFU is a national leader in interprofessional research and practices, and is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, cardiac resuscitation, and gait and balance.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the Doctor of Medical Science Program in the College of Health Professions.
• Promote the recruitment and retention of a diverse and highly qualified faculty and staff.
• In collaboration with Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM), grow and diversify student enrollment.
• Drive the strategy for program innovations and curricula development to ensure an exceptional learning experience.
• Guide the design and development of new course offerings.
• Guide the program assessment process.
• Teach courses related to areas of content expertise as appropriate.
• Supervise and advise students on their progress in the program/courses/research projects based on program expectations.

All full-time faculty members employed by RFUMS are expected to engage in activities that are considered core to their primary role as a faculty member. These activities may include teaching, scholarly activity, and service.

Teaching responsibilities vary and may include:

• Direct instruction
• Curriculum management
• Assessment
• Advising and mentoring for students

Scholarly activities vary and may include:

• Original scholarship
• Grant procurement
• Research mentoring

Service activities vary and may include internal and external contributions through:

• Committees
• Contributions to the profession
• Recruitment
• Direct patient care

Scholarly activities and/or clinical activities are negotiated and determined at the department level and are primarily based upon the faculty track.

Conditions of Employment

• Must achieve satisfactory results from a background check
• Must have proof of COVID 19 vaccination or a university approved exemption

Required Education & Experience

• Doctoral degree in medical science or related field
• 3 years teaching experience in higher education
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion

 Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Strong communication skills in virtual and in-person environments. 
• Commitment to interprofessional education.
• Ability to utilize technology and online learning management systems required for teaching as well as real-time communication platforms. 
• Flexibility and desire to be part of a growing team.

 Preferred Qualifications

• NCCPA Certified Physician Assistant
• Academic or clinical leadership experience 
• Experience with mentorship and supervision of students and staff
• Background and experience in curriculum development 
• Familiar with national trends in physician assistant education and practice
• Experience working with community and healthcare delivery partners
• Experience teaching in a fully online environment

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, Including Disability / Vets