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POSITION SPECIFICS
The Eberly College of Science at The Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA, invites applications and nominations for the position of Head of the Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics . The Department seeks an accomplished scholar, strategic thinker, and collaborative leader to guide its next chapter of excellence in research, education, outreach, and service.
Upon appointment, the successful candidate will hold the rank of Professor and will receive a primary academic appointment in the Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics. The candidate should possess a distinguished record of research, teaching, mentorship, and academic leadership, along with a commitment to fostering an inclusive, collegial environment in which faculty, staff, postdoctoral scholars, and students can achieve their fullest potential.
Department
The Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics is internationally recognized for excellence in observational, theoretical, and computational astrophysics. Faculty, researchers, and students pursue fundamental questions about the universe through research spanning exoplanets and planetary systems, stellar and galactic evolution, black holes and active galactic nuclei, cosmology, gravitational waves, multi-messenger astrophysics, astronomical instrumentation, and data-intensive astronomy.
The Department benefits from extensive collaborations across Penn State and with national and international partners. Its faculty play leading roles in major observatories, surveys, space missions, and interdisciplinary research initiatives, providing exceptional opportunities for discovery, innovation, and student engagement. The Department is committed to advancing knowledge of the universe while educating the next generation of scientists and leaders.
Position Responsibilities
Reporting directly to the Dean of the Eberly College of Science, the Department Head serves as the chief academic and administrative officer of the Department and provides leadership for all aspects of its mission.
The successful candidate will:
Articulate and advance a compelling vision for the Department's future while building alignment around strategic priorities.
Create and maintain an environment that fosters a strong sense of community, shared purpose, academic excellence, innovation, integrity, and mutual respect among faculty, staff, postdoctoral scholars, and students.
Support faculty success at all career stages through effective mentoring, professional development, and strategic resource allocation.
Strengthen and expand the Department's research enterprise while enhancing its national and international reputation.
Foster interdisciplinary collaborations within the College, across Penn State, and with external partners.
Serve as a visible and effective advocate for the Department, promoting its priorities with College and University leadership, alumni, donors, and the broader scientific community.
Support fundraising and development efforts that advance research, education, student success, and strategic initiatives.
Develop and manage budgets strategically while effectively administering personnel, facilities, and academic programs.
Promote…