Chair, Mechanical Engineering
The University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM - United States
The University of New Mexico School of Engineering seeks a dynamic, innovative, and personable leader to serve as the next Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
The University of New Mexico was founded in 1889 as New Mexico’s flagship institution. The University is the only R1 institution in the State and offers various academic programs through 14 colleges and schools. These academic options include more than 215 degree and certificate programs, including 94 baccalaureates, 71 master’s, and 37 doctoral degrees. UNM is a Hispanic Serving Institution that takes pride in the extraordinary diversity of its students and in providing opportunities for students, regardless of socioeconomic background. UNM has 4 branch campuses across the state, which provide academic and vocational training, leading to certificates, associate degrees, and transfers to baccalaureate programs. The University enrolls over 26,000 students and employs over 10,000 faculty and staff.
The University of New Mexico School of Engineering, originally known as the College of Engineering, opened in 1906 with a faculty of two and a single classroom. With time, advances in technology, social change, and the dedication and foresight of many talented people, the School has become a leader in education and research in engineering and computer science. The School programs include chemical and biological engineering, civil, construction, and environmental engineering; computer science, electrical and computer engineering; mechanical engineering; and nuclear engineering. The School benefits from robust partnerships with national labs, including Sandia National Laboratories, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and the Air Force Research Laboratory, which provide strong research collaborations and offers students excellent internship and career opportunities. UNM also provides an excellent entrepreneurial ecosystem to translate intellectual property into business.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering, which commenced its operation in 1931, is committed to excellence in both undergraduate and graduate education offering BS (ABET accredited), MS, and PhD degree programs. A team of 15 full-time faculty, several research and part-time faculty, three technical staff, and five professional staff support the activities of over 500 undergraduate students and more than 100 graduate students. The department’s research, educational, and outreach programs are enhanced through participation in interdisciplinary programs and research centers on campus and through strong ties and collaborations with the neighboring national laboratories (Sandia National Laboratories, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and the Air Force Research Laboratory). In addition, the Department’s fully online master’s curriculum in Space Systems Engineering, is one of the first of its kind in the country. The Department also supports the Mechanical Engineering (BSME) program on the UNM-LA campus in collaboration with the Los Alamos National Laboratory.
The ME Chair will report directly to the dean and be an integral and vital part of the School’s leadership team. As the department’s academic and administrative leader, the ME Chair is responsible for all education, faculty, research, and service activities across Mechanical Engineering. The Chair oversees the department’s operations and budget, manages resources strategically and responsibly, and works with the Dean to encourage philanthropic engagement and support. Toward that end, the ME Chair will be expected to improve Student Success pathways; develop faculty and staff, build a culture of equity and inclusive excellence, grow research and innovation, and develop and expand partnerships.
An earned doctorate in mechanical engineering or a related field is required as is a record of scholarly achievement meriting appointment as a tenured full professor. A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and student success, as well as working with broadly diverse communities is also strongly preferred. Prior administrative and management experiences is preferred, as well as a demonstrated commitment to collaborative leadership and a strong track record of impactful research and excellence in teaching.
WittKieffer is assisting the University of New Mexico in this search. All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by November 8, 2024.
Application materials, nominations and inquiries can be directed to:
[email protected]