Case Western Reserve University - Chair, Department of Psychological Sciences

Chair, Department of Psychological Sciences – Case Western Reserve University

Academic Career & Executive Search is pleased to assist Case Western Reserve University in its search for Chair, Department of Psychological Sciences.

The Department of Psychological Sciences at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is entering a major period of growth and reinvention, driven by a transformative $60 million institutional investment in mental health research, education, and community impact. The next Chair will lead one of the university’s most dynamic departments at this moment of significant opportunity, overseeing new academic hires, renovated space, and the launch of the Moll Institute as a catalyst for interdisciplinary scholarship and national visibility.

• Lead a department-wide strategic planning process that defines areas of future distinction and investment, balancing long-standing strengths in developmental and cognitive science with expanding initiatives in mental health and well‑being.
• Guide the department through a major period of expansion and transition, including recent faculty hires, renovated research and instructional space, and the continued evolution of the department’s academic and research portfolio.
• Support the successful launch and integration of the Sara and Curt Moll Institute for Mental Health and Well‑Being, ensuring that the Institute serves as a catalyst for interdisciplinary collaboration and societal impact while maintaining strong departmental governance and academic breadth.
• Oversee faculty recruitment, mentoring, and professional development, fostering a collegial, inclusive culture that supports both emerging and established scholars and strengthens leadership capacity across the department.
• Strengthen and diversify the department’s external research funding profile, mentoring faculty in grant development and supporting a broad range of funding strategies across federal agencies, foundations, and other sponsors.
• Advance interdisciplinary partnerships and visibility, including collaborations across Case Western Reserve and with major regional and national partners in health, research, and community engagement.
• Provide effective administrative stewardship of a complex academic enterprise, including responsibility for budget, personnel, instructional programs, and staff leadership, while sustaining the department’s strong record of student training and scholarly excellence.

• A doctoral degree in Psychology or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in an academic setting with a track record of fostering collaborative relationships across diverse disciplines and research types.
• A clear, forward-looking vision for departmental growth and excellence.
• Deep understanding of the external funding landscape and responsibilities associated with sustaining extramurally supported research programs.
• Research accomplishments and extramural grant funding consistent with those required for an appointment as a tenured Professor at an R1 institution.
• Teaching and mentoring experience, with a successful track record in the classroom and mentoring students.
• Strong commitment to collegiality, collaboration, transparent communication, and appreciation for interdisciplinary scholarship that bridges psychological and communication sciences.

• Preferred expertise in developmental psychology, cognitive psychology or affective science.
• Particular interest in applicants who appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of the department and who will nurture existing collaborations while identifying new opportunities to leverage the interdisciplinary structure.

Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a leading private research university located in Cleveland, Ohio, known for its deep commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community impact. As a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), CWRU is a national leader in research, teaching, and innovation. CWRU offers a dynamic and supportive environment for faculty, staff, and researchers, with opportunities to…