Information on the advert for Dean of Postgraduate Research
Dear colleagues,
An opportunity has arisen for applications to the role of Dean for Postgraduate Research. The Dean is responsible through the Vice-Principal Research for the promotion of excellence in all areas of postgraduate research study. Working closely with the Vice-Principals, Heads of Schools and the Deans for Research the purpose of the role is to (i) achieve the targets for postgraduate research study set out in School plans and Aberdeen 2040 and (ii) ensure that the internal and external requirements associated with postgraduate research programmes are met.
By demonstrating visionary and inspirational leadership in postgraduate research matters, the Dean for Postgraduate Research will provide support, motivation and guidance to colleagues engaged in the development and delivery of postgraduate research programmes to support an outstanding postgraduate research student experience. Working with the Postgraduate Research School Manager, the Dean will play a key role identifying key areas of focus for Postgraduate Research students, including (i) processes for recruitment, admission and support of PgR students and (ii) making recommendations for ongoing operational arrangements for the Postgraduate Research School.
Full details of the role and remit are available here https://www.abdnjobs.co.uk/internal/vacancy/dean-for-postgraduate-research-530757.html
For this role candidates should have extensive experience in a higher education environment, with an aptitude for delivering successful projects and meeting targets. You will be able to demonstrate an academic research track record of success with a broad range of intellectual interests underpinned by demonstrable achievements in relation to research including publications, securing funding awards, supervision and mentoring coupled with an in-depth understanding of the current requirements for PgR education. You will be an excellent communicator who is able to influence and work effectively across the University, and externally, at all levels. You should have the ability to think strategically at an institutional level, negotiate, find and implement novel solutions, and communicate your ideas with sensitivity and diplomacy. A commitment to, delivering an outstanding student experience and collaboration and partnership working is essential.
Applications are welcome from academic members of staff. Deans are appointed on a 50% of full-time basis and School duties will be adjusted to an agreed level to enable the role holder to fulfil the responsibilities of the role. Consideration will be given to flexible working requests and / or alternative models of delivery, where applicants can demonstrate that the requirements of the role can be delivered. The role holder will receive a superannuable allowance of £5,000 per annum. The role is a fixed term appointment for an initial period of 3 years, renewable subject to satisfactory performance for one further period of up to 3 years.
Applications should be made by way of current detailed CV and a 500 word covering letter detailing the reasons for the application and the ways in which the applicant achieves the required skills and knowledge. Applications should be sent to Fiona Smith, Head of HR Business Partnering (f.m.smith@abdn.ac.uk) by Friday 28th July. It is anticipated that interviews will take place in the week commencing 14 August 2023, by which time the incoming Vice-Principal Research will be in role.
If you have any questions or wish to discuss the role generally, please feel free to contact Marion Campbell (m.k.campbell@abdn.ac.uk) or Liz Rattray (e.rattray@abdn.ac.uk)