Department Chair​/Associate or Full Professor of Human Sciences

Department Chair/Associate or Full Professor of Human Sciences

Position Title: Department Chair/Associate or Full Professor of Human Sciences

Requisition: F

Rank: Associate or Full Professor

FLSA Status: Exempt

Hiring Salary: Commensurate with education and experience.

Position Type: Full-Time Tenure Track

College: College of Health Sciences

Department: Dept of Human Sciences

Open Date: 05/05/2025

Contact Name: Dr. Jennifer Didier

Title: Chair of Search Committee, Department of Kinesiology

Address: Sam Houston State University Box 2176, Huntsville, TX 77341‑2176

Phone: 936‑294‑1398

Email: jennifer.didier

The College of Health Sciences at Sam Houston State University announces its search for an innovative leader with a record of academic accomplishment and organizational leadership to serve as Chair of the Department of Human Sciences. The department is home to three undergraduate programs:
Fashion Merchandising (100% online), Food Science and Nutrition, and Interior Design. It offers a Master of Science in Dietetics, which will be physically housed at the SHSU campus in Conroe, TX starting Summer of 2026. The Food Science and Nutrition and the Master of Science in Dietetics programs are both accredited by ACEND and the Interior Design program is accredited by CIDA and NASAD.

Human Sciences empowers students with knowledge and skills that aim to enhance wellbeing and address critical human needs in the built environment, textiles and clothing, and food and nutrition. The Chair is the department’s chief academic and administrative officer, overseeing education, research, and service. Responsibilities include scheduling classes, approving student, faculty and staff forms, evaluating faculty and staff annually, overseeing the departmental budget, upholding institutional policies, hiring faculty, staff and students, managing curricula, and serving on the College’s leadership team.

An academic record in teaching, research and service that warrants appointment as an associate or full professor at Sam Houston State University; a viable candidate will hold a terminal degree in Human Sciences or a related discipline (Ph.D., MS‑, M Arch, or MFA) and significant experience with a Human Science program, department, and/or college.

Clear evidence of emerging research within a discipline under the Human Science umbrella, including frequent published research in refereed journals or comparable juried creative accomplishments; demonstrated excellence in teaching and building undergraduate and graduate programs; commitment to innovative research and curricular development; ability to create an environment of excellence and servant‑leadership; and leadership in a climate of collaboration and operational efficiency.

Membership in professional organizations related to the applicant’s field of expertise; leadership experience in a university setting (program director/coordinator, center director, research/laboratory director, department chair/head, or other leadership roles); strong interpersonal and communication skills; commitment to mentoring students, faculty, and staff; experience with accrediting bodies, assessment, and community engagement.

Consideration of sub‑disciplines in all official decisions taken at the department, college, and university levels, fostering mutual understanding and a stronger research and work community.

The application packet must include a cover letter of interest that details how the applicant’s credentials and experience meet the needs of the position, as well as the qualifications and responsibilities detailed above. Applicants should submit a current curriculum vitae and contact information for three references.

Yes

Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug‑Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Sam Houston State University is an ‘at‑will’ employer; employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security‑sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code.