🚀 Associate Dean for Research, College of Public Health

Overview

Associate Dean for Research, College of Public Health

The Ohio State University seeks an Associate Dean for Research (ADR) to provide visionary leadership for the College’s research enterprise. The ADR serves as the chief research officer, reporting directly to the Dean, and is responsible for strategy, operations, and administration of research resources across the College’s divisions. This is a 50% administrative appointment, with teaching and research responsibilities scaled accordingly. The ADR will be a key strategic partner to the Dean, contributing to decisions that shape the College’s future growth and national visibility. The ADR works collaboratively with faculty, division chairs, and staff to foster interdisciplinary, collaborative research among divisions, with other colleges at Ohio State, and with external partners. The successful candidate will hold a doctoral degree and have qualifications commensurate with tenure at the rank of professor with an appointment in an appropriate division. Candidates from diverse disciplines, including the social sciences and humanities, are encouraged to apply. The position includes a state-supported salary and start-up package.

The college conducts more than 50 research programs across locations from Columbus to international sites and offers more than 30 degree specializations at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, along with more than a dozen dual or combined degree programs with other Ohio State colleges.

For more information about how to nominate a candidate or to express interest, please see below.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a forward-looking research vision that responds to opportunities and challenges in public health.
• Lead the expansion of research portfolios by contributing to scholarly work and mentoring faculty, staff and students.
• Diversify funding sources, including federal, state, private industry, and foundations.
• Strengthen research partnerships with state agencies, local health departments, and community organizations, leveraging the university’s land-grant mission.
• Engage with donors to advance strategic research initiatives and foster long-term partnerships, in collaboration with the college’s development office.
• Advocate for the college within national and international societies, forums, and committees.
• Foster mentorship and collaboration, supporting early-career faculty and promoting interdisciplinary research across colleges.
• Enhance internal infrastructure for research administration, including pre- and post-award processes, IRB navigation, and internal grant review.
• Support faculty needs through flexible research support systems.
• Elevate the College’s visibility in university-wide initiatives and external partnerships.
• Integrate technological advancements, including AI, into research operations while addressing ethical and funding implications.
• Serve as a thought leader and strategic advisor within the Dean’s Office leadership team.

Qualifications

• A well-established research program with sustained funding and relevance to public health.
• Proven track record of growing research portfolios, including mentorship of faculty, staff and students.
• Demonstrated success in grant writing, publishing, and leading collaborative research initiatives.
• Ability to mentor junior faculty and foster supportive research environments.
• Demonstrated leadership and people management skills, with experience overseeing research support teams.
• Ability to navigate complex organizational environments and translate approaches to fit the College’s structure.
• Appreciation for the diversity of public health research across divisions and the ability to apply a broad lens to support all areas.
• Skilled communicator capable of advocating for the College to university leadership, policymakers, and external stakeholders.
• Experience with multi-sectoral collaborations and cross-institutional partnerships.

Additional Information

• Inquiries, nominations and applications are invited. Application review will begin on November 3, 2025.
• Required materials include a Letter of Interest and Curriculum Vitae (CV). Please direct all application materials to Allison Thomas, Talent Acquisition Consultant, at with the subject line “Associate Dean for Research, College of Public Health.”
• Location: Cunz Hall (0293); Position Type: Regular; Scheduled Hours: 40; Shift: First Shift.
• The university is an equal opportunity employer. Finalists for tenure-track positions must sign a disclosure form regarding past employment-related misconduct or disciplinary matters when applicable. A background check is required for final candidates; a drug screen or physical may be required post-offer.

For answers to additional questions, please review the frequently asked questions and the Candidate Home section of this site to view status of submitted applications.

The Ohio State University is committed to diversity and equal opportunity in employment, including veterans and disability.

Note: The content below relates to job listings and does not alter the primary responsibilities or qualifications of the Associate Dean for Research role.