Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering

Maynooth University is an internationally recognised institution and Ireland’s fastest growing university. One of four constituent universities of the National University of Ireland, Maynooth University is in the top 90 global Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024. With over 17,000 students and 1,200 staff based across three Faculties, Maynooth offers a range of programmes at undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral level in science and engineering, arts and humanities, and social sciences, including business, law, and education. Maynooth’s unique collegial culture fosters an interdisciplinary approach to research, tackling some of the most fundamental challenges facing society today.

Maynooth University is seeking to appoint an Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. As a member of the University Executive, the Executive Dean will lead the development of the Faculty, working with key internal and external stakeholders to raise the profile, reputation, and performance of Maynooth University via the Faculty’s educational and research strengths. The Executive Dean will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the Faculty, maintaining and enhancing the excellence, reputation, and growth of its existing Schools and Departments, while leading the establishment of a new School of Health and Medicine as a core strategic priority for the University.

The successful appointee will demonstrate strong experience with operational and strategic leadership in a relevant environment combined with an excellent track record in research and teaching in an academic discipline aligning with current and future plans for the Faculty, which includes science, engineering, and health. They will have a key role in promoting and facilitating cross-university opportunities for teaching, research and engagement, and will have the ambassadorial skills to represent the Faculty and University externally at a national and international level.

Maynooth University will be supported in this appointment process by the executive search firm Perrett Laver. Enquiries can be made directly to Callum Conway, callum.conway@perrettlaver.com. Further information and applications can be made via https://PLusPortal.PerrettLaver.com quoting reference 7839.

The closing date for applications will be Friday, 30th October 2026.

Applications should consist of a full curriculum vitae detailing academic and professional qualifications and experience. CVs should be accompanied by a covering letter describing briefly how candidates meet the criteria outlined in the job description, why the appointment is of interest and what they believe they can bring to the role.

Candidates who are longlisted by the Committee will be invited to first round interview with Perrett Laver in mid to late November. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for formal interviews with the Selection Committee in early December.

The appointment will be made subject to satisfactory references, and the formal interview process may include additional assessments.