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Dean of Mathematical, Life, and Physical Sciences
Position overview
Position title: Susan and Bruce Worster Dean of Mathematical, Life, and Physical SciencesApplication Window
Open date: May 13, 2025
Next review date: Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Tuesday, Sep 30, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
Interested applicants should apply at: https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/university-california-santa-barbara/susan-and-bruce-worster-dean-mathematical-life
The University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) invites nominations and applications for the position of Susan and Bruce Worster Dean of Mathematical, Life, and Physical Sciences (MLPS). UCSB is ranked #8 globally in interdisciplinary science by Times Higher Education, with world-renowned scientists, including four Nobel Prize winners in the sciences (two in physics and two in chemistry) and it is well- known for innovation across disciplinary boundaries. The Dean will have the unique opportunity to lead the distinguished and dedicated faculty, staff, and students of MLPS to sustain continued excellence across research, teaching, and service.
UC Santa Barbara is a preeminent public research university and member of the American Association of Universities (AAU). Forbes Magazine, which showcased 500 of the finest U.S. institutions of higher education in its 2024-2025 America’s Top Colleges list, ranked UCSB as the #8 public university in the country. It is home to 12 national centers and institutes, including the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics and the AI Institute for Agent-based Cyber Threat Intelligence and Operation. Its 1,107 faculty members include six Nobel Laureates in chemistry, physics, and economics, 56 American Academy of Arts and Sciences members, and more than 30 members of the National Academy of Sciences; more than 80 current or former faculty are elected fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The campus enrolls about 26,000 students and, with only five colleges and professional schools, offers the benefits of a premier research university with a focus on and appreciation for an intimate undergraduate learning experience. In 2015, UCSB was designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution, the first AAU institution to receive this designation, and is also an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving institution. UCSB is also known for its natural beauty as the campus
sits on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and is bordered by the Santa Ynez Mountains.
The division of Mathematical, Life, and Physical Sciences (MLPS) sits within the College of Letters & Science as one of four divisions, alongside the divisions of Humanities and Fine Arts, Social Sciences, and Undergraduate Education. In Fiscal Year 2023-2024, MLPS was awarded more than $49M in sponsored research. MLPS offers 40 undergraduate majors and a diverse range of graduate programs. Innovative interdisciplinary courses of study in areas like environmental studies and marine science are one of UCSB’s unique strengths.
The Dean of Science will propel the division to new heights in research and teaching, building on historical strengths while identifying new opportunities for innovation and growth. They will steer the division through the challenges of the current funding landscape, build and deepen collaborations across units and with external partners, and advance the reputation of UCSB and, in particular, its MLPS faculty,
research, and educational programs.
Instructions to Apply
UC Santa Barbara has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist in this search. Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Applications, including CVs and cover letters, should be submitted via the Isaacson, Miller website: https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/university-california-santa-barbara/susan-and-bruce-worster-dean-mathematical-life
Julie Filizetti, Hayden Lizotte, and Gabrielle Harrington
Isaacson, Miller
Qualifications
At the time of application, applicants must hold a Ph.D. or the highest equivalent terminal degree in a relevant field
AND
At least 5 years of demonstrated progressive leadership in developing and leading graduate education at an R1 university that would qualify them for an appointment as a tenured full professor in an MLPS department.
The successful candidate will have many, if not all, of the following qualifications and characteristics:
A distinguished teacher, scholar, and academic leader in the mathematical, physical, and/or life sciences who brings a passion for academics, research, and teaching;
Strong administrative experience with a track record of success in a complex institution;
Intellectual leadership, particularly in interdisciplinary science, with the wide-ranging interests required to understand, appreciate, and encourage the varied work within the MLPS division;
An astute understanding of finances and the relationship between academic priorities and the budget and the ability to make thoughtful decisions around financial resources;
A keen understanding of how to manage and enhance physical space resources;
An extensive track record in building sponsored research, with deep knowledge of the internal and external mechanisms required to sustain and expand a top-tier research program;
A record of accomplishment that demonstrates a commitment to student success and the University of California’s mission as a public university of promoting accessibility, excellence, and community;
Demonstrated capacity for and interest in fundraising and generating new sources of revenue, including the ability to carry an inspiring message, cultivate key external constituencies, attract partners, raise funds, generate enthusiasm among alumni, and obtain commitments to support MLPS;
Outstanding communication and listening skills with the ability to articulate a vision, inspire others, attract partners, and generate enthusiasm;
Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence with the ability to connect with the members of the UCSB community and to work effectively across the campus and with external groups;
A collaborative approach to leadership and a passion for advancing a unit in alignment with advancing the overall institution.
Application Requirements
Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter - Please address your interest in the position of Dean of MLPS as well as how your past experience prepares you to address the key opportunities and challenges listed in the description. Cover letters are typically 3-4 pages
Statement of Research (Optional)
Statement of Teaching (Optional)
Help contact: gardner@chem.ucsb.edu
About UC Santa Barbara
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
- “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, dishonesty or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
- UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
- UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, students and third parties
- APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment
Additionally, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.