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The University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of Director of the University Center for Social and Urban Research (UCSUR). UCSUR serves as a resource for researchers and educators interested in the basic and applied social and behavioral sciences and seeks to become an epicenter of translational research to positively impact the region as well as serve as the academic the home for community-engaged research at Pitt. The successful candidate will be a dynamic, visionary leader with demonstrated experience in research methodologies, community engagement, and community-engaged scholarship and education, with proven skills in academic or other administration, resource procurement and management, partnership development, and program formation. Ideally, the appointee will begin in Summer 2025.

From research achievements to the quality of its academic programs, the University of Pittsburgh ranks among the best in higher education. As one of the largest and oldest institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania, Pitt is a state-related public institution and a member of the Association of American Universities. With an enrollment of nearly 30,000 students on the Pittsburgh campus and guided by its strategic plan, Plan for Pitt 2028, Pitt is internationally respected as a center for learning and research.

Pitt intends to build on its recognized strengths as a national leader in community engagement by consolidating and coordinating community-engaged research. UCSUR provides a unique opportunity to create a home for community-engaged research at Pitt and, with inspired and transformational leadership, will complement its existing strength in urban and social research to provide the methodological support, professional learning, and intellectual community desired by community-engaged scholars. The next Director will have broad autonomy to shape the next phase of a long-running and successful center and mold it into the hub for community-engaged research at Pitt, advancing a portfolio of community-engaged research endeavors, and becoming a destination for community-engaged scholars seeking an institution that fosters high-impact, socially relevant partnered research.

Academic Search is assisting the University of Pittsburgh in this search. For more information about the position, institution, qualifications, and application process, please download the full position profile from the Academic Search website. Nominators and potential candidates may arrange a confidential conversation about this exciting opportunity with one of the two Senior Consultants leading the search: Dr. Cynthia Patterson (cynthia.patterson@academicsearch.org) or Dr. Maria Thompson (maria.thompson@academicsearch.org). When submitting a nomination, please send the nominee’s full name, title, position, and email address to UPITT-UCSUR@academicsearch.org.

The deadline for initial consideration is Monday, January 13, 2025. Review of applications will continue until the search is completed.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.