Dean, College of Engineering and Polymer Science

The University of Akron invites nominations and applications for the position of Dean of the College of Engineering and Polymer Science. For this senior leadership opportunity, the University seeks a visionary leader that is an accomplished scholar, collaborator, and forward thinker – who is eager to build upon the College’s rich history while advancing a growth-minded vision rooted in innovation and impact.

The College of Engineering and Polymer Science comprises eight academic units including Departments of Biomedical Engineering; Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering; Civil Engineering; Computer Science; Electrical & Computer Engineering; Mathematics; Mechanical Engineering; and the School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering.

The College is internationally recognized for its leadership in polymer science, polymer engineering, and has a significant research mission, maintaining $15 million in externally funded research expenditures annually. The College also enjoys a long-standing and deep integration with industry resulting in research funding that far exceeds most engineering colleges in the US.

The Dean serves as the chief academic and administrative officer of the College and provides strategic leadership for teaching, research, recruitment, outreach, and service. The Dean reports to the Provost and works collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, university leadership, alumni, industry partners, and external stakeholders.

The successful candidate will be a respected leader in engineering, polymer science, or a closely related field, with demonstrated ability to manage complexity, foster collaboration, and advance excellence in both undergraduate and graduate education.