The College of Architecture (COA) at Texas A&M University (TAMU) invites applications and nominations for the position of Head, of the Department of Visualization (VIZA). The position is anticipated to begin in Summer 2020.

The Department of Visualization is a cross-disciplinary program with faculty that includes artists, computer scientists, art historians, interaction designers, and allied experts from the sciences and the arts. In this hybrid environment, the Department of Visualization offers an opportunity for various forms of collaboration. Texas A&M is a Tier One research university, and the Department of Visualization encourages and expects robust exhibition of artworks and/or publication of scholarly research by our tenured and tenure track faculty.

Three degree programs are offered by the department: the Bachelor of Science in Visualization, the Masters of Science in Visualization, and the Masters of Fine Arts in Visualization. A PhD in Visualization is under review by university administration. Students benefit from both instruction and placement through the department’s strong ties with CG film and electronic media and game studios. Our graduates can also be found in fields as disparate as fine art and scientific visualization.

In concert with the College of Architecture and Texas A&M University strategic planning for 2020-2030, the Department of Visualization is now in the process of developing a new strategic plan. The new Department Head will thus have an opportunity to lead and shape this plan.

The Department of Visualization is located in the College of Architecture, home to a diverse and comprehensive array of disciplines and degree-granting programs related to the natural, built, and virtual environments. Other departments include Architecture, Construction Science, and Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning. In addition, five research centers, three research institutes, several laboratories, and advanced fabrication facilities support transdisciplinary projects.

At Texas A&M University, Department Heads are managers and leaders with multiple responsibilities; they must be able to mentor, resolve conflict, build consensus, administer policies, manage departmental resources, and promote the scholarly activities of the faculty. They oversee teaching, research, and service activities of the department including recruitment, hiring and retention of faculty. Department Heads speak for the department within and outside of Texas A&M University; they find ways to attract new sources of funding, decide how to allocate resources, and establish the future directions of the department. In addition, they are responsible for seeing that students are receiving a quality education.

The successful candidate will bring vision and leadership to maintain excellence with respect to the mission of the department and will demonstrate significant evidence of accomplishment in:

•Impactful interdisciplinary research, scholarship, and creative endeavors
•Entrepreneurial spirit and vision to navigate change.
•Effective and fair administration of human and financial resources.
•Commitment to the principles and practices of shared governance.
•Obtaining external financial support.
•Outstanding capacity to communicate with multiple constituencies.
•Championing diversity and inclusivity among students, faculty, and staff.

Minimum Qualifications:
•Candidate must have a terminal degree (e.g. PhD or MFA)
•Recognized leadership
•Candidate must be able to demonstrate excellence in research and/or creative work
•Demonstrated knowledge, experience, and record of excellence in higher education
•Candidate must be qualified and able to teach graduate and/or undergraduate courses. While the administrative appointment does not include teaching, the successful candidate will be expected to rejoin the faculty at the end of his or her tenure as department head, and should be capable of teaching a full teaching load within the department.
•Credentials that merit appointment at the rank of Full Professor with tenure.

Applications should include a letter of interest that addresses administrative experience, leadership philosophy, and vision of professional education and research; a curriculum vitae; contact information (name, address, phone number and email) for at least five references. The Search Committee may request additional materials. Application materials received by October 31, 2019 will receive full consideration. Late applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled.

Applications, nominations, and inquiries should be sent to:

Dr. Cecilia Giusti, Chair,
Search Advisory Committee
Search for the Head of the Department of Visualization
3137 TAMU
College of Architecture
Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas 77843-3137
Email: searchvizahead@arch.tamu.edu

Information on the Department of Visualization is available at: http://viz.arch.tamu.edu

Information on the College of Architecture is available at:
http://www.arch.tamu.edu

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment for all visitors, students, faculty, and staff by promoting a culture that embraces inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability. Diverse perspectives, talents, and identities are vital to accomplishing our mission and living our core values.

The Texas A&M University system will provide equal opportunity to all applicants for employment, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.