Head of Department & Professor of Health Sciences (Updated)

Role Description

Updated role description: We have updated the role description to celebrate the diversity of academic excellence. We believe that visionary leadership can develop from a variety of professional journeys; as such, we welcome and encourage applications from colleagues with distinguished backgrounds in either research-intensive or teaching-focused careers. We value the unique perspectives that different academic pathways bring to our leadership team.

The University of York invites applications from exceptional individuals for the position of Head of Department & Professor of Health Sciences. The role of Head of Department will be for a 4-year term, after which the appointee will continue as a Professor. The Head of Department will provide collaborative academic leadership, nurturing a culture of excellence in research and teaching, and of collegiality, respect, and commitment to equity.

The successful candidate will:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and articulate a compelling vision for the Department, enhancing its international reputation.
• Academic Excellence: Champion a culture of high-quality research, teaching, and open intellectual exchange.
• Operational Management: Oversee financial operations and resource allocation to align with strategic priorities.
• Community & Inclusion: Foster a supportive, diverse, and inclusive environment for staff and students.
• Ambassadorial Role: Represent the Department and University to external stakeholders and the broader Faculty.

Key Requirements

• A proven track record of collaborative and strategic academic leadership, with the ability to inspire, support, and empower colleagues.
• PhD or equivalent in a relevant field of health sciences.
• A strong record of academic achievement and impact (via research, pedagogy, or practice) commensurate with a professorial appointment.
• Experience in strategic planning, financial management, and resource allocation.
• A deep-rooted commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

Equality & Diversity

The University of York is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive. We encourage applications from women and individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds, who are currently underrepresented in leadership roles within the institution.

The University of York: A Nurturing Community

The Department of Health Sciences provides a stimulating and supportive environment for research growth and educational excellence. We are proud of our collaborative atmosphere, family-friendly policies, and dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where we can all be ourselves. To find out more about the Department, please visit www.york.ac.uk/healthsciences/.

Informal Enquiries: Candidates are encouraged to make informal enquiries to Paul Ellison, University Recruitment Adviser, at paul.ellison@york.ac.uk.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview.  Read more about the University of York’s commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.