Department Head, Biological Sciences

Current University of Arkansas System employees, including student employees and graduate assistants, need to log in to Workday via , then access Find Jobs from the Workday search bar to view and apply for open positions. Students at University of Arkansas System two-year institutions will also view open positions and apply within Workday by searching for “Find Jobs for Students”.

All Job Postings will close at 12 : 01 a.m. CT on the specified Closing Date (if designated).

If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application process will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through “My Draft Applications” located on your Candidate Home page.

Closing Date : Type of Position :

Chair

Workstudy Position : Job Type :

Regular

Work Shift :

Sponsorship Available :

Institution Name :

University of Arkansas at Fort Smith

University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that’s redefining higher education. We’re on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. We’re committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas’s rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state’s varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and / or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Department :

College of Arts and Sciences

Department's Website :

Summary of Job Duties :

The Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith (UAFS) seeks applications for the Department Head to be appointed at the rank of Associate / Full Professor of Biology. The position will start July 1, 2025. The department offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Biology, a Bachelor of Science in Biology with Teacher Licensure, and a minor in Biology. In addition, the Department of Biological Sciences plays a significant role in supporting curricula across the institution. The Department Head is responsible for administrative and academic roles within the department. The Department Head serves as the primary administrator and leader for the academic unit and reports to the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Experience in teaching, research, service, and administration at a 4‐year institution is preferred. The successful candidate will teach a 15-credit hour course load during the 12-month contract year. Administrative duties include managing full-time and part-time faculty, academic program development and growth, program evaluation and assessment, and collaboration across the university.

Qualifications :

Preferred Education and Work Experience :

The following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position :

• Doctorate in biology from an accredited institution
• Demonstrated experience in an academic leadership position for at least three years, supervising others and being a team leader
• Demonstrated experience in the effective use of technology in the classroom, developing instructional materials, and delivering distance learning
• Demonstrated Commitment to first-generation and non-traditional learners and pedagogical experience in support of a broad range of students
• Scholarly record commensurate with appointment as an associate or full professor. Applicants should be prepared to provide evidence of their continuity in scholarly / creative activities. Evidence could include but is not limited to presentations at regional or national conferences, and / or publications in academic or professional journals, and / or development of published instructional materials, and / or other scholarly or creative activity as is appropriate to their academic discipline.
• Demonstrated excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks simultaneously

Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities : The following competencies are preferred for the essential functions of this position :

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities :

Other duties as assigned by the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences

Essential Duties and Responsibilities - Approximate Breakdown :

Additional Information :

Working Relationships : Works closely with administrators, faculty, students, and staff campus-wide. Contact with students and instructors from high schools, junior high schools, and elementary schools for specially scheduled events is sometimes required .

Special Job Dimensions : This is a 12-month position. Rank and salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. It includes a generous benefits package, including UA System health insurance, TIAA retirement system, and more.

Salary Information :

Minimum at associate : $100,000; Minimum at full : $112,000. Final salary commensurate with education and experience.

Required Documents to Apply :

Cover Letter / Letter of Application, Curriculum Vitae, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Unofficial / Official Transcript(s)

Optional Documents :

Proof of Veteran Status

Special Instructions to Applicants :

For full consideration, please apply by April 1, 2025.

Recruitment Contact Information :

Human Resource 479-788-7080

Pre-employment Screening Requirements :

Criminal Background Check

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and / or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and / or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity). Federal law prohibits the University from discriminating on these bases. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

Constant Physical Activity :

Standing

Frequent Physical Activity :

Sitting

Occasional Physical Activity :

Talking

Benefits Eligible :

Salary : $112,000