The Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine (XOCOM) is now accepting applications for the position of Biomedical Sciences Chair (BSC). We are seeking an exceptional leader to guide the department and serve as the inaugural Chair. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of biomedical sciences within a dynamic medical school setting, fostering academic excellence, innovative research, recruiting and developing faculty, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration in medical education, and fostering community partnerships. The BSC will lead the department, collaborating closely with the Dean, faculty, and staff to establish a strategic vision for the Department’s future.
Responsibilities
The Chair’s primary responsibility is to oversee the medical school curriculum for the first two years of medical education, focusing on biomedical sciences. This leadership role encompasses administrative duties, including budgeting, personnel mentoring and management, and policy compliance, alongside research responsibilities and significant involvement in teaching and service.
In addition to overseeing research and faculty management, the Chair will shape and enhance the curriculum, fostering an innovative learning environment, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration in medical education. The Chair ensures that the department’s academic and research goals align with the College’s institutional mission and objectives, emphasizing educational excellence and faculty development.
The ideal candidate for this role will be a visionary leader with a successful record in medical education, medical school accreditation, and research in biomedical disciplines. Exceptional academic accomplishments are essential, as the Chair will be responsible for advancing research programs, as well as developing, supervising, teaching, and delivering the first two years of the medical school curriculum. A national reputation in medical education, along with a proven ability to mentor faculty and train future physicians, are critical for this position. The Chair must demonstrate a commitment to building an equitable and diverse environment through leadership and service. XOCOM is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and is particularly interested in candidates who have experience working with individuals/students from diverse backgrounds, minimizing barriers, and increasing equity in healthcare. The Chair will report directly to the Dean of XOCOM and collaborate with the Associate Dean of Education and Academic Affairs in the development and delivery of the medical school curriculum.
Job Duties
Collaborate with the curriculum committee to design, implement, and evaluate the biomedical science curriculum for the first two years of medical school.
Ensure that the curriculum aligns with accreditation standards and integrates with the overall medical school mission and objectives.
Utilize innovative teaching methodologies, including active learning and technology-enhanced instruction.
Foster an integrated teaching program for XOCOM, working with clinical department chairs and the Associate Dean for Education and Academic Affairs.
Foster a collaborative research environment that encourages interdisciplinary partnerships across departments and colleges.
Recruit and retain a diverse and qualified faculty, ensuring a robust educational and research-focused department.
Facilitate professional development opportunities to enhance teaching effectiveness and research capabilities.
Assign administrative, teaching, research, and service roles to the faculty of the department.
Conduct annual performance evaluations of faculty within the department and recommends personnel actions to the Dean; oversees department review of applicants for promotion and/or tenure.
Ensure a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for students and faculty.
Work collaboratively with the Associate Dean of Student Affairs to regularly assess and improve student engagement, well-being, and performance.
Promote student involvement in research activities during the foundational years of medical school.
Support student research in the curriculum and oversees program for medical students who choose a more intensive research experience during medical school.
Address student concerns and feedback, working to continuously refine the curriculum and learning environment.
Guide the development of research programs for students and projects within the biomedical science department.
Report on the progress of curriculum implementation, faculty research, and overall departmental performance.
Work closely with the Associate Dean of Education and Academic Affairs, other department heads, and administrative leaders to meet institutional goals.
Encourage and support diversity within the department, creating an environment of professionalism, respect, tolerance, and acceptance.
Encourage and support research creativity and productivity, providing recommendations on strategic research program directions and fostering intra- and interdepartmental collaboration and integration of basic, clinical, and translational research.
Allocate departmental resources effectively, including space, equipment, and personnel, to support teaching, research, and service activities.
Manage department finances, and resources effectively and efficiently, in accord with XOCOM policies.
Serve on institutional committees and task forces as needed, representing the biomedical science department.
Represent the department and XOCOM in relevant professional societies and the broader community to:
Contribute to the advancement of basic science education and scholarship at the local, regional, and national levels.
Foster partnerships and collaborations that enhance education, research, and service missions.
Participate in fundraising activities to secure financial support for XOCOM and departmental initiatives, research projects, and student scholarships.
Build and maintain relationships with leaders in academia, industry, and healthcare to enhance XOCOM’s and the department’s reputation.
Salary and Benefits
Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Required Education and Professional Experience/Skills
PhD, MD, MD/PhD or equivalent advanced degree in a biomedical science discipline.
Postdoctoral research experience.
At least five years of experience in medical education and curriculum development, particularly in the first two years of medical school.
Proven leadership experience in academic administration or department management.
Strong track record in biomedical research and funding.
Strong track record of mentoring faculty.
Commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative academic environment.
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
