Job Description

The Department of Systems and Information Engineering (SIE) at the University of Virginia is seeking a visionary leader and world-class scholar to serve as Department Chair. With a 50-year legacy of excellence, we are committed to addressing real-world challenges through cutting-edge research and education. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of systems and information engineering while working within a vibrant academic community that values collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.

About Us
At SIE, we believe in applying systems thinking to tackle society’s most complex challenges. Our department is home to:

• 15 tenure-track faculty and 3 academic general faculty members
• A thriving community of ~150 graduate students and ~225 undergraduate students
• Innovative research in Human-Technology Interaction, Operations Research/Analytics, and Information & Intelligent Automation

Our faculty and students engage in transformative work funded by industry leaders, federal agencies, and private foundations, focusing on areas such as:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning
• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
• Robotics and automation
• Decision theory and systems thinking
• Operations research and financial engineering

SIE’s endowment includes funding for two prestigious professorships, enabling bold initiatives in systems thinking and financial engineering.

The Role
As Chair, you’ll lead a dynamic and ambitious department with a culture of excellence and collaboration. You will guide strategic initiatives, faculty development, alumni engagement, and innovative research efforts, ensuring SIE continues to thrive as a leader in the field.

???? Your Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategic vision to advance SIE’s academic and research objectives.
• Enhance the department’s reputation within UVA and the broader systems engineering community.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive culture that supports faculty, staff, and students.
• Build partnerships with alumni, industry leaders, and federal agencies to expand opportunities for growth.
• Oversee budget management, accreditation processes, and program development.
• Champion faculty and student excellence in research, teaching, and service.
• Represent SIE as a contributing member of the SEAS leadership team.

Qualifications
We’re seeking a transformational leader with:

• A Ph.D. in systems engineering, industrial engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• An outstanding record of research, teaching, and service that qualifies for a tenured faculty appointment at the professor level.
• Proven administrative and leadership experience in managing academic or research programs.
• A commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in academia.
• A visionary perspective to guide the department into the future of engineering innovation.

About UVA and SEAS
The University of Virginia consistently ranks among the top public universities in the nation, with a strong focus on academic excellence and interdisciplinary research. Located in Charlottesville, Virginia, UVA offers the perfect blend of small-city charm and proximity to Washington, D.C., fostering opportunities for collaboration with federal agencies and industry leaders.

SEAS is a hub for cutting-edge research, tackling global challenges in sustainability, cybersecurity, and medicine. At SEAS, we prepare students to be leaders in innovation and drivers of change.

How to Apply
Apply via Interfolio ([link]) by submitting the following in PDF format:

1. Cover letter summarizing your research, leadership philosophy, and potential collaboration opportunities at UVA.
2. Curriculum vitae detailing your academic and professional achievements.
3. A statement of research describing your current work, future directions, and broader impacts.
4. A teaching and mentoring statement, highlighting your approaches to fostering student growth.
5. A diversity statement, showcasing your efforts and experience in creating an inclusive academic environment.
6. References: List 3-5 individuals with contact details.

Application Review Timeline

• Priority Review Date: March 15, 2025
• Applications will remain open until the position is filled.

Contact Information
For questions regarding the position, contact Kevin Skadron, Search Committee Chair, at skadron@virginia.edu.