Department Head - Biology & Microbiology

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: The Department of Biology and Microbiology seeks an innovative and collaborative leader with the vision, communication skills, and administrative capacity to guide the department. The successful candidate should be committed to establishing collaborative relationships, fostering an environment in which faculty and stakeholders are engaged partners, and communicating consistently and effectively. The Department Head is responsible for leading the development and maintenance of strong academic programs, supporting student recruitment and success across undergraduate and graduate programs, and ensuring that curricula remain rigorous, current, and responsive to workforce needs. The Department Head also provides leadership for the department’s research enterprise by supporting faculty grant development, managing research infrastructure and operations, mentoring early‑career faculty, promoting collaboration, and cultivating a culture of high‑quality, externally funded research. BENEFITSmedicaldentalflexible benefitsretirement planscompensation packagespaid holidaysvacation leave 6% matching retirement plan10 hours of annual leave each month9.34 hours of sick leave each montheleven paid holidaysinternal and state-sponsored trainingreduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutionsrelocation benefits are available per university’s guidelinesMINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSPh. D. in Biology, Microbiology Biotechnology or closely related field by application date. Meets the standards for tenure and rank within the department. Standards documents are available upon request to the search committee chair. Evidence of effective leadership and administrative skills including management of academic and research programs, managing complex budgets, fiscal matters, and/or personnel within an academic setting. Effective interpersonal relations, consensus building, professionalism, and motivational skills Effective verbal and written communication skills Understanding of the land‑grant mission.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Experience in academic administration, including the development, evaluation and oversight of undergraduate academic programs, curricula and/or instructional operations. Ability to support and advance research program success, strategic planning, and departmental initiatives. Familiarity with student success best practices Familiarity with recruitment and retention best practices for students, faculty, and staff Experience with collaboration across disciplines and/or with multiple stakeholders Evidence of cultivating entrepreneurial opportunitiesCOMPENSATION Advertised Salary The salary and rank for this position are commensurate with qualifications, minimum of $150,000 for Associate Professor. LOCATION & HOURS Duration of the Term 12 months Appointment Percent 100%Proposed Rank Professor Appointment Type Regular Scope of Search External (includes Internal) If internal, define scope of search Work Hours Typical Hours Worked Per WeekDEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION & CULTURAL EXPECTATIONS SDStateis the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of adynamic communityfor families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT: South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land‑grant access mission. SDSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailingHR@sdstate.edu. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.Posting Date 07/23/2026 Open Until Filled YesFirst Consideration Date 08/31/2026 Posting Number F01913PDepartmentPhysical Location of Position (City) Physical Location of Position (City) Brookings South Dakota Board of Regents 306 E. Capital Ave, Suite 200 Pierre, SD 57501 605-773-3455