The Department of Psychology in the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences (BBS) at The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) is seeking an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as Department Head. The University invites applications from advanced Associate Professors or Full Professors with a strong record of scholarship, leadership, and expertise in one or more of the department’s core areas of strength: cognitive neuroscience, developmental science, cognitive science, clinical psychology, or social/personality psychology. Candidates integrating artificial intelligence into their research are highly desirable.
This leadership role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic and interdisciplinary department. The Department Head serves as a central representative of the department faculty and a key partner to the Dean of the School, guiding strategic initiatives that include modernizing course offerings, refining academic programs, expanding the research enterprise, and launching new degree pathways.
The Department Head will provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for the Department of Psychology, ensuring alignment with the academic mission of the School and University. This individual will collaborate closely with faculty and school leadership to enhance curriculum design and delivery, while supporting and promoting high-impact research across the Department’s core areas. The Department Head will lead efforts to develop and implement new academic programs that reflect institutional priorities and emerging trends in the field. A key aspect of the role is fostering a culture of academic excellence. The Department Head will also represent the Department in school-wide and university-level planning and governance, mentor faculty across ranks, and support their professional development. In addition, the role includes oversight of departmental operations, including budgeting, staffing, department strategic planning, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies and procedures.
All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a letter of interest addressing the themes in this profile and a CV or resume. WittKieffer is assisting The University of Texas at Dallas in this search. For full consideration, candidate materials should be received by February 18, 2026. Application materials, nominations, and inquiries can be directed to Ryan Crawford and Sarah Seavey at [email protected].