Department Head of Biological Sciences

The Department Head is the driving force behind the development and enhancement of research programs, scholarly efforts, as well as strategic initiatives that focus on recruitment and retention issues. This position will engage in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses and will be encouraged to maintain a research program appropriate in a department with both an undergraduate and Master’s degree program. This twelve-month position, which is not term-limited, is primarily responsible for advancing the culture of academic distinction where excellence in teaching, research, scholarship, and service is expected. Southeastern Louisiana University is located in Hammond, approximately 50 miles from the metropolitan centers of New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

Southeastern has an enrollment of more than 15,000 students and the Department of Biological Sciences has approximately 650 undergraduate majors and 30 graduate students, in 6 concentrations: Ecology, Environmental, & Evolutionary Biology; Integrative Biology; Microbiology & Molecular Biology; Plant Science; Biology Education; and Business.

A successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to advancing the department's mission and have a proven track record of academic leadership or related experience, budget management, and fostering research and academic excellence. Specifically, some key responsibilities are:

• Lead and provide representation for faculty, staff and students in Biological Sciences.
• Oversee strategic (includes short- and long-range) planning, direction, and development of the academic department.
• Coordinate and administer the rules and academic standards regarding undergraduate and graduate instruction, curricula, and scheduling for the department.
• Plan and initiate programs concerning organizational, operational, and academic functions for the department and oversee their execution.
• Lead faculty development and recruitment for the department. Evaluate faculty in accordance with evaluation guidelines and the guidelines for tenure and promotion. Make recommendations for faculty appointments, promotions, and compensation. Provide support for and assist the department in fundraising, proposal writing, and developing new programs in congruence with the mission of Southeastern Louisiana University.
• Manage and allocate the department's budget to effectively support academic, research, and operational needs. Develop budget requests that are forwarded to the Deans.
• Coordinate policies and procedures for the department.
• Represent the department at formal functions and in public relations efforts such as speaking engagements and outreach activities in the community.
• Work with and chair University committees as assigned. Assist the Dean in the formulation of college policies and procedures.
• Maintain operational procedures, rules, and standards relating to faculty and staff.
• Oversee the scheduling of courses and recommend the implementation and removal of courses, concentrations, and programs.
• Advise the Dean and the Provost on academic matters concerning the department.
• Lead efforts in the assessment of student learning outcomes and program effectiveness.
• Champion the growth and enhancement of research initiatives, seeking opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and external funding.
• Assume responsibility for buildings and their maintenance, oversight of departmental purchases, and inventory.

Questions concerning this position should be directed to Dr. Christopher Murray, Chair of the Department Head Screening Committee, at cmurray@selu.edu. Please apply through the University employment site (https://ulsselu.wd503.myworkdayjobs.com/SLU) by November 8th 2026. Full consideration will be given to applications received by November 8th 2026, however applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Required Qualifications

• Doctorate in a discipline of Biological Sciences from an accredited university by hire date. Credentials that warrant appointment at the academic rank of Associate Professor or Professor.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated success in academic administration, with experience in leading teams, and managing budgets and programs, and relevant experience that can be leveraged to enrich classroom instruction and connect theory with real-world practice.
• Proven experience in developing partnerships and collaborative relationships to support departmental growth and student opportunities.
• A strong record of excellence in research and teaching that reflects commitment to high academic standards and innovative practices with undergraduate and graduate students.
• A commitment to supporting faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds and lived experiences.

Desired Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and foster an inclusive environment.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with faculty, staff, and students. Ability to effectively lead individuals and groups who come from different lived experiences.

Required Documents

• Cover Letter describing specific interest in this position
• Curriculum Vita/Resume
• Leadership Statement detailing how their experiences make them prepared and interested in this position; this statement should include content describing the applicant’s expertise in research and teaching
• Copies of Transcripts (Only an unofficial transcript for the highest degree is required at application. Official transcripts for all degrees will be required upon employment.)
• Names and contact information for three professional references, including email addresses, telephone numbers, their current employers and their positions. At least two references should be able to provide commentary specifically addressing the applicant's interpersonal and communication skills. References will not be contacted until after the initial screening and upon first informing the applicant.

Posting Close Date: November 2, 2026

Please Note: Applications must be completed and submitted by 11:59 p.m. on the posting close date to ensure consideration.

Southeastern Louisiana University is committed to fostering an environment of inclusion, respect and appreciation of differences in individuals. Southeastern is also designated as a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency and provides assistance to persons needing accommodations or with the accessibility of materials.

How to Apply

Click on the Apply button and complete an electronic application which can be used for this vacancy as well as future vacancies. Any required documents should be attached under the Resume/CV section of your application. If all required documents are not attached you will NOT be considered.