Director of Science & Technology Innovation Education (Open Rank-Faculty title to be determined)
University, MS, US, 38677
Note for Current UM Employees
Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu
Position Description
The Director of Science & Technology Innovation Education will determine and facilitate best practices necessary to lead UM’s vision for a student-centered learning environment at the Jim & Thomas Duff Center for Science and Technology Innovation (DCSTI) at The University of Mississippi. The construction of the ambitious building is underway; and is scheduled to be completed within a year. The DCSTI is envisioned to be one of the nation’s leading teaching facilities for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). UM’s vision is to implement best practices for operating the facility and in supporting cutting-edge pedagogy that benefits students, faculty, staff, and the community. The 202,000-square-foot state-of-the-art building has a $175 million total project budget and is the largest single construction project on the Oxford campus to date. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4qMWVIG5N4
The Director will be the administrator of the multidisciplinary space and a facilitator to develop new initiatives, coordinating with other stakeholders across campus to implement educational and outreach programs in STEM fields. This includes assisting in the operations to support all laboratory facilities, classroom technology, instructional resources, and community outreach necessary to improve outcomes and instill curiosity and interest in STEM learning.
The successful candidate will be expected to:
• Supervise building support staff
• Coordinate and work effectively with the STEM departments on campus
• Model effective interdisciplinary teaching practices
• Develop outreach community partnerships to enhance professional development and educational research.
• Develop and implement policies related to the operation of the building and related programs
• Guide innovative pedagogy that maximizes the use of the innovative teaching spaces
• Secure external funding to enhance the STEM programs on campus.
The ideal candidate will value interdisciplinary thinking and will have experience planning and teaching with active learning strategies and other new educational methods.
Minimum Qualifications
Qualified candidates should possess the following education & experience:
• Doctoral degree in a STEM field with a preference for a scholar engaged in Discipline-Based Educational Research (DBER)
• Minimum of 5 years of experience teaching in a STEM field at the collegiate level
• Demonstrated leadership, flexibility, and creativity in decision-making and program development
• Knowledge of curriculum standards and applications in STEM subject areas
• Expertise in evidence-based pedagogies, design thinking, and best practices across the STEM curriculum
• Demonstrated commitment to inclusive and equitable teaching practices in STEM education
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships
• Skilled in implementing effective professional development activities
• Ability to prioritize and execute a wide range of projects simultaneously
Individuals with relevant academic experience also will be considered for a faculty appointment by the appropriate academic discipline.
Application review will begin April 24th and continue until an adequate pool of candidates is met. Application materials must include the following submitted as separate pdf documents:
• Cover Letter
• Letter of Intent, limited to 2 pages or less. Provide an explanation of relevant experience and vision for the center with an emphasis on innovative education in the STEM fields.
• Current CV
• 4 References with contact information
• Be prepared to submit transcripts at a later date.
Position Details
Appointment (12 Month)
Assignment Type (Tenure Track)
Application Procedures
Combine the documents into two individual documents and utilize the "cover letter" and "resume" upload feature.
About the University of MS & Oxford, MS
Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.
Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.
Background Check Statement
The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
Nearest Major Market: Oxford Mississippi