Dean, School of Science and Engineering

School of Science and Engineering

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) invites applications and nominations for the position of Dean of the School of Science and Engineering (SSE). This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead a dynamic and growing school at a pivotal moment in UMKC history. With the university's recent achievement of the prestigious Carnegie R1 designation, expanded academic offerings, and the imminent launch of a comprehensive capital campaign, the next Dean will play a vital role in advancing excellence in education, discovery, and innovation at one of the nation's premier urban research universities.

The School of Science and Engineering houses a robust collection of degree programs spanning the sciences, computing, data science, information technology, and engineering disciplines. SSE's exceptional faculty are deeply engaged in teaching and research, offering rich experiential learning opportunities including undergraduate research, industry partnerships, internships, and community-based projects. Recent academic innovations include new programs in architecture, biomedical engineering, and multiple PhD offerings across engineering, computer science, and the natural sciences.

SSE's impressive research enterprise is anchored by nationally and internationally recognized centers and institutes, including the Missouri Institute for Defense and Energy (MIDE) and the Data Science and Analytics Innovation Center (dSAIC).The Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise and Research Center is a signature feature of the school, which provides world-class laboratories, maker spaces, and innovation studios where students, faculty, and industry partners come together to discover and create. Through close collaboration with Kansas City's thriving business and technology community, the Plaster Center strengthens UMKC's role as a hub for entrepreneurship, research, and workforce development. With $67 million in funded research, SSE faculty are advancing frontier work that addresses some of the world's most pressing challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration and applied solutions that benefit Kansas City, the state of Missouri, and beyond.

Reporting directly to the Provost, the Dean will lead a community of more than 120 full-time faculty and a dedicated professional staff who together support approximately 3,000 students. Working collaboratively across four interdisciplinary academic divisions and a growing portfolio of programs, the Dean will champion a culture of innovation and academic excellence. Key priorities for the next leader include strengthening external partnerships with industry and government, expanding research productivity, enhancing student success and experiential learning, recruiting and retaining top talent, and building philanthropic and corporate support to advance the school's mission.

Candidates should include a CV and Cover letter. Later in the search process, additional information may be sought from interested candidates, along with names and contact information for at least 5 references. Candidates will be notified before references are contacted.

The priority application deadline is Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 11:59 PM.

Nominations and inquires of interest may be sent in confidence to the University's search partners:

Tim McIntosh, Senior Director of Recruitment

Anna Cramer, Senior HR Consultant

umhrexecutivesearch@umsystem.edu

The full position profile is available online at https://umurl.us/UMKC_SSE_Dean

Kansas City offers the best of both worlds-a vibrant, urban community with Midwestern appeal. The city's rich history and its modern-day, innovative thinking come together to create an eclectic group of neighborhoods that offer a little something for everyone. From thriving arts districts, an energetic downtown nightlife, casual to upscale shopping and champion sports teams, you will have no problem making yourself at home. Of course, one of Kansas City's biggest claims to fame is its food, especially its world-famous barbecue. Foodies will delight in the culinary scene found throughout the city. Ranging from award-winning chefs to cozy pizza joints, Kansas City definitely is not lacking any flavor.

UMKC's campuses are conveniently nestled in the middle of all the action. Volker Campus is just minutes from the legendary Country Club Plaza, perfect for shopping or restaurants for lunch or after-work happy hours. Surrounded by hip neighborhoods and eateries, the Health Sciences Campus is located downtown near University Health Truman Medical Center and Children's Mercy Hospital.

UMKC is proud to be "Kansas City's university," and the campus and its people celebrate all the characteristics of the surrounding community. To learn more about life in Kansas City and find more resources, visit VisitKC.com.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.