Director of the Center for Health Equity Transformation – University of Kentucky

Director of the Center for Health Equity Transformation – University of Kentucky School of Medicine

The University of Kentucky College of Medicine invites applications and nominations for the position of director to lead the dynamic and rapidly growing Center for Health Equity Transformation (CHET). CHET is a transdisciplinary research and training center focused on developing the most innovative and impactful research and training portfolio that will advance health equity for all.

The UK College of Medicine seeks a visionary director with a successful record of research achievement focused on the advancement of equity in cancer, cardiovascular disease, dementia and other related neurological diseases, diabetes and obesity, substance use, or other health conditions. Exceptional accomplishments as a researcher and academic are necessary, as the director’s duties will include continuing their own research program as well as supervising trainees and maintaining service activities. We are seeking a senior (associate or full professor) research and leadership-focused faculty member for this tenured or tenure-track, Regular Title Series, full-time (12-month) position. It is anticipated that the academic appointment for this position will be located in the UK College of Medicine Department of Behavioral Science.

The predominant criteria for appointment as director include a national reputation for research and a strong track record of mentoring faculty while training future leaders in this area. A successful candidate will be a prominent academic leader and role model with a national reputation in equity-focused research, education, and mentorship.

The successful candidate should demonstrate leadership skills as a listener, decision-maker, and equity-oriented scholar and be an effective advocate for the center and its faculty, trainees, and staff. The candidate should have experience developing collaborative initiatives and the skills needed to promote, foster, and facilitate the trust of colleagues and the broader University faculty. The successful applicant should demonstrate impeccable integrity and be an effective communicator. Prior extensive administrative experience as a department chair, director, vice chair, or director of graduate studies or equivalent is preferred.

Professional Experience/Qualifications:

• PhD, MD, MD/PhD, or equivalent in behavioral sciences, public health, social sciences, communication, health services research, bioinformatics, health sciences, or other related fields and be eligible for appointment at an associate or full professor rank.
• Strong record of extramural funding and peer-reviewed publications in health equity/disparities research.
• Demonstrated leadership in administrative positions.
• Documented record of inclusive recruitment, mentorship, and retention of academic scholars.
• Demonstrated commitment to mentorship and career development of trainees across the career stages—undergraduates, professional and medical students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and early-career faculty.
• Recognized involvement in academic and professional societies at a national level.

The College of Medicine seeks qualified applicants who value its missions and share its commitment to creating an environment in which inclusion is imperative and belonging is foundational. As an Equal Opportunity Action Employer, we strive to foster a community in which individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives can feel secure and welcome.

Position Description: The selected faculty member will be expected to conduct innovative, rigorous, grant-funded research and engage in scholarly activities (peer-reviewed publications, presentations, etc.) and to provide leadership for CHET’s faculty, staff, and trainees. They will contribute to the research training of UK students and postdoctoral scholars, including mentorship programs, workshops, and supervised research. As a comprehensive and collaborative campus, the faculty member is expected to engage in broader research and training initiatives across all 19 colleges of the University of Kentucky.

Percentage of Time and Effort:
Research/scholarly activities – 75%
Leadership and administration – 20%
Instructional activities – 3%
Service to center, college, University or professional organizations – 2%

This position is established in keeping with the mission statement of the UK College of Medicine.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Provide oversight for the research and training portfolio of CHET, encouraging the growth of health equity research through scholarly dissemination (publishing, presenting, submitting, and obtaining extramural funding) and promoting training.
• Support an inclusive environment for faculty, staff, and trainees.
• Promote mentoring of faculty, staff, and trainees in research and professional development.
• Facilitate an environment of collaborative research and conduct, including maintaining records of accomplishments and supporting the acquisition of external funding.
• Manage center resources and space to ensure effective and productive operations.
• Sustain and grow the national and international reputation of the center in the field of health equity through professional, societal, and advocacy activities.

Ideal Candidate Experience and Attributes:

• A strong visionary and inspirational leader who conveys a long-term vision for the center and is skilled at implementing a detailed plan to achieve that.
• Exceptionally team-oriented; skilled at working well and partnering with scientists across the college and University.
• Demonstrated commitment to community engagement and sustainable partnerships through research, institutional initiatives.
• Highly adept at managing the day-to-day operational details while creating unity within a diverse center.
• Able to analyze complex business and development opportunities and understand the finances of an academic research center.
• Actively develop the center’s mission, strategies, and practices to support a diverse and inclusive environment.

How to Apply: Interested applicants should apply through the University of Kentucky job posting: University of Kentucky Job Posting .

Questions and inquiries can be directed to the search chairs: William W. Stoops, PhD, ( ) or Kevin J. Pearson, PhD, ( ). All applications will be handled in a secure, sensitive, and confidential manner.

The position is open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as received.

Upon offer of employment, successful applicants must undergo a national background check and pre-employment drug screen as required by University of Kentucky Human Resources. The University of Kentucky is an Equal Opportunity University that values diversity and inclusion. Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women, and members of minoritized or other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.