Department Head, Applied Mathematics and Physics

The College of Science and Mathematics seeks visionary applicants for the Department Head of Applied Mathematics and Physics position, a fiscal (12-month) administrative faculty-ranked position beginning July 1, 2025. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead the department's transformation into a hub for Computational and Statistical Data Science, fostering interdisciplinary innovation and positioning the department at the forefront of modern academic and industry trends. The position carries rank at either the Associate or Full Professor level, with the possibility of tenure.

Department Vision and Opportunities

The Department of Applied Mathematics and Physics is embarking on an ambitious journey to redefine itself as a leader in Computational and Statistical Data Science. Our vision is to cultivate an environment integrating advanced computation, statistical methodologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration to solve pressing local, regional, and global challenges. This transformation will empower faculty and students to excel in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, and systems modeling.

The new Department Head will have the opportunity to:

• Redesign Curricula: Spearhead the development of innovative programs that align with the demands of data science and its applications in various disciplines.
• Expand Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Partner with departments such as Computer Science, Engineering Technology, Biology, Geosciences, and beyond to enhance research and academic offerings.
• Enhance Research Impact: Position the department as a computational and statistical applied research leader, attracting external funding and increasing student participation in high-impact projects.
• Prepare Students for the Future: Develop initiatives that equip students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in competitive data science careers, including experiential learning and mentorship opportunities.

Department Summary

The Department of Applied Mathematics and Physics at Valdosta State University is committed to teaching, research, and service excellence. Faculty members are deeply involved in computational research, statistical analysis, and applied physics, contributing to advancements in theory and practice. The department is vital in supporting STEM disciplines by providing foundational instruction in introductory courses and fostering a collaborative and innovative academic environment. With planned expansions into applied mathematics and data science and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration within the College of Science and Mathematics, the department is well-positioned to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for future careers.

Responsibilities

Reporting directly to the Dean, the Department Head provides effective leadership, advocates for the department, and oversees its academic and administrative functions. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the department's transformation into a center for computational and statistical data science excellence.
• Developing a strategic vision that aligns with college and university goals.
• Supporting faculty development and fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
• Overseeing curriculum design to ensure relevance and alignment with industry trends.
• Promoting interdisciplinary research and external partnerships.
• Managing departmental budgets and resources effectively.
• Teaching courses, mentoring students, and maintaining active research involvement.

Required Qualifications

• An earned terminal degree in Data Science, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, Applied Statistics, Operations Research, or a related field from an accredited university.
• A strong background in Data Science, including course development and research publications in data science.
• A distinguished teaching, research, and service record that supports appointment at the Associate or Full Professor level.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in academic or research settings.
• A proven track record of fostering innovation in teaching and learning.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• A collaborative leadership style and commitment to shared governance.

Preferred Qualifications

A strong background in Data Science and leadership experience leading a data science department. Experience in fostering innovation in developing community collaboration and partnership.

Application Instructions

Completed applications will be reviewed beginning February 28, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled. Applicant materials should include:

• A cover letter detailing your vision for transforming the department into a Computational and Statistical Data Science hub.
• A curriculum vitae.
• A teaching philosophy that includes strategies for creating curricula to meet a diverse student body's needs and career goals.
• A research statement outlining interests and plans to enhance the research mission of a regional public institution.
• A leadership statement addressing contemporary challenges facing departments at regional comprehensive universities.

For more information, contact Dr. Raymond Elson, Search Chair/Associate Dean and Professor of Accounting, The Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business, at 229-219-1214 or relson@valdosta.edu.

This is a transformative opportunity for a dynamic leader to shape the future of a department and contribute meaningfully to the growth of computational and statistical data science at Valdosta State University.

Valdosta State University, founded in 1906, is a comprehensive university with a student enrollment of approximately 10,200. The city of Valdosta is located just north of the Florida state line on Interstate 75, is served by a regional airport, and is within a two-hour drive of Jacksonville and Tallahassee, Florida. For more information, visit https://www.valdosta.edu, and for more information about the community, visit https://www.valdostachamber.com.

Valdosta State University is an equal-opportunity educational institution. It is not the institutions intent to discriminate against any applicant for admission or any student or employee of the institution based on the age, sex, race, religion, color, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation of the individual.

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

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