The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) at the University of Connecticut seeks applications from current tenured full professors within the College for the position of Associate Dean for Research and Strategic Initiatives. This internal leadership role offers an exciting opportunity for a distinguished scholar to shape the College’s research enterprise, enhance external funding success, and lead strategic initiatives that strengthen the College’s academic, scholarship and societal impact.
The Associate Dean for Research and Strategic Initiatives will lead efforts to enhance the visibility, impact, and external support of research and creative activity across CLAS, while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and supporting faculty research excellence. The position reports directly to the Dean and serves as a key member of the College’s senior leadership team, collaborating closely with other associate deans and advising the Dean on a wide range of issues.
Appointment Details
This is a five-year, renewable, twelve-month administrative appointment that includes the summer, beginning Jan. 1, 2026. The successful candidate will serve at the pleasure of the Dean and will be designated as management exempt. Associate deans are expected to maintain an active research program and teach one course per year.
Key Responsibilities
- Promote excellence and innovation in research and scholarship across CLAS departments and programs.
- Develop and implement strategies to increase faculty success in acquiring external funding to support their research and scholarship.
- Foster interdisciplinary research and collaborations with centers, institutes, and external partners.
- Strengthen the College’s research infrastructure, compliance, and administrative support.
- Lead college-wide strategic initiatives aligned with institutional priorities.
- Support faculty mentoring, professional development, and equitable access to research resources.
- Represent and advocate for the College’s research mission to internal and external stakeholders.
Minimum Qualifications
- Current tenured full professor within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Connecticut.
- Demonstrated record of research excellence and scholarly achievement.
- Proven experience in academic leadership or administration.
- Demonstrated success in research development, grant acquisition, and faculty research support.
- Ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives consistent with College and University goals.
- Effective communication, interpersonal skills, and excellent organizational abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and large-scale research initiatives.
- Familiarity with University research administration, compliance, and funding processes.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills with faculty, staff, and stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to plan strategically and manage complex initiatives.
- External partnerships and advancement:
- Experience fostering relationships with government agencies, foundations, and industry partners.
- Experience in philanthropy, fundraising, or research commercialization is a plus.
- Exceptional communication skills to advocate for the College’s research mission to internal and external audiences.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following materials to clas@uconn.edu:
- A current curriculum vitae.
- A two-page cover letter describing qualifications, leadership experience, and vision for research and strategic initiatives within CLAS.
Applications must be received by end-of-day on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, for full consideration.
For questions about the position, please contact: clas@uconn.edu.