Position Details
Title Chair Department of Physics Appointment Status Tenure Department IU Indianapolis Department of Physics – School of Science Location Indianapolis Position Summary
The IU-Indy Physics Department invites applications for the position of Chair of the Department of Physics from tenured candidates, particularly those at the full Professor rank.
The Chair of the Department of Physics in the School of Science (SoS) at IU Indianapolis is expected to provide visionary leadership for the unit, including developing and executing a clear vision to strengthen the Department. The Chair is expected to attract, mentor, and retain a cohort of the highest quality faculty, staff and students, and to develop and maintain programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels that highlight its strengths. The Chair will:
· Develop a vision and execute a plan for strategic growth of the academic and research enterprises that align with the strategic plans of the SoS and IU Indianapolis.
· Lead a team of academically strong individuals and on issues including recruitment, retention, and management and development of faculty and staff.
· Manage the departmental budget, keeping annual expenditure and income in balance.
· Contribute to graduate and undergraduate teaching, and curriculum and program development by advancing and modernizing the curriculum.
· Advance the Department’s research funding and reputation and support efforts to increase externally funded research.
· Work collaboratively within the Department, the School of Science, and across IU Indianapolis.
· ·Demonstrate talent in consensus building, strategic planning, vision, and innovation.
· Demonstrate communication and interpersonal skills needed to be an effective leader.
· Participate in the alumni relations and fundraising activities of the SoS.
The successful candidate is expected to be an internationally recognized scholar in a sub-discipline of Physics, as evident from publication, citation, and funding records; possess a proven track record of service to the department and the SoS; have a successful record of teaching, research and creative activity, and service at IU Indianapolis; and have experience in working with multiple communities to broaden participation in science.
Applicants should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae and a leadership statement.
Review of applications will begin on Oct. 15, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.
Dr. Ruihua Cheng e-mail: rucheng@iu.edu
Basic Qualifications
Tenured Internal Physics Professor
Department Contact for Questions
Dr. Ruihua Cheng e-mail: rucheng@iu.edu
Additional Qualifications
Other – Leadership Statement third document to be submitted
Salary and Rank Commensurate with rank and experience Special Instructions For Best Consideration Date 10/15/2026 Expected Start Date 01/01/2027 Posting Number IU-101718-2026
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