The College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering (CNSE) at the University at Albany seeks a visionary and collaborative leader to serve as Associate or Full professor who will also serve as the founding Chair of the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering (MME). This individual will provide academic, administrative, and strategic leadership for a growing department focused on cutting-edge education and research in mechanical, mechatronics, and design engineering. The Chair will play a critical role in faculty recruitment, program development, and fostering partnerships with industry and other academic units.
The Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering at the University at Albany is committed to developing innovative solutions to societal challenges through interdisciplinary research and high-impact teaching. With newly launched undergraduate and graduate programs, the department is positioned for significant growth and seeks a leader to help shape its future trajectory.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead the department in strategic planning, curriculum development, accreditation (e.g., ABET), and program assessment.
• Support and promote faculty research, teaching, and professional development.
• Recruit, mentor, and retain a diverse and high-performing faculty and staff.
• Oversee departmental operations, including budgeting, scheduling, and personnel evaluations.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and academic excellence.
• Strengthen external partnerships with industry, government, and alumni to support research, internships, and fundraising.
• Advocate for the department within the college, the university, and externally.
• Ensure compliance with university, SUNY, and accreditation policies and procedures.
• Teach courses in mechanical engineering, mechatronic engineering, or mechanical design
• Lead and manage direct reports/team providing guidance, support, and performance feedback to assure goals, programs, activities, and personnel practices are consistent with and contribute to the University's mission.  Lead employees for maximum performance and dedication, fostering a positive and productive work environment. Complete performance management feedback and goals timely and per requirements, offering constructive feedback and developing improvement plans.

Functional and Supervisory Relationships:

• Reports to Dean of CNSE
• Supervises the following positions: Tenure track faculty, lecturers, adjuncts, and staff in the department.
• May supervise as assigned: Teaching assistants, student assistants.

Appointment Details:

• The Chair role is a concurrent appointment and reports to the Dean of CNSE.
• The Chair role is provided with an administrative course release and a stipend.
• The Chair role is at the pleasure of the Dean of CNSE and the Provost, typically appointed for three years, renewable based on performance and college needs.
• When the Chair role concludes, faculty will revert to their home department, and essential functions will re-align based on university standards for tenured, research-active faculty.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D.  in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related area degree from a college or University accredited by the US Department of Education or an internationally recognized accrediting organization.
• A record of teaching, research, and service that meets the criteria for a tenured faculty appointment at the rank of Associate Professor or Full Professor.
• Demonstrated administrative or academic leadership experience, such as leading a department, research center, or academic committee.
• A strong record of scholarly publications.
• A record of research funding.
• Experience mentoring graduate students.
• Evidence of effective undergraduate and graduate teaching, including curriculum development and assessment.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusive excellence in education and hiring practices.
• Applicants must demonstrate an ability to develop inclusive and equitable relationships within our diverse campus community
• Applicants must demonstrate an ability to support diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and belonging relative to their role

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with launching new academic programs, particularly in mechanical, mechatronics, robotics, or automation engineering.
• Familiarity with ABET accreditation processes, including outcomes-based assessment and continuous improvement.
• Experience in strategic planning, budget management, and resource allocation.
• Proven ability to foster industry partnerships, interdisciplinary research, or joint academic initiatives.
• Experience with external fundraising, alumni engagement, or developing grants and contracts with public/private entities.
• Experience with faculty recruitment, evaluation, and mentoring, especially in a diverse and multidisciplinary environment.

Working Environment:

• Class schedules may include courses offered after 5 pm on weekdays. 
• This position will require occasional evening and weekend work to support events and community activities.
• Travel within New York State and beyond may be necessary.

Professional Rank and Salary Range: Professor and Chair, A3, Salary commensurate with experience

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