Chair, Department of Genetics

The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine (OUCOM) seeks an innovative, visionary, responsive, and strategic builder to serve as the founding Chair of the Department of Molecular Genetics and Genome Sciences. This entrepreneurial academic leader will join the OUCOM at an exciting inflection point in its trajectory and will work with leadership, researchers, and staff across The University of Oklahoma’s (OU) campuses to accelerate growth in the areas of genetics research and increase the impact the Health Sciences Center and the University have on Oklahoma and beyond.  

The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC) is a comprehensive academic health center with a rich history as the State's major educational resource for training physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, public health specialists, healthcare professionals, and biomedical scientists. An internationally prominent faculty, state‐of‐the‐art facilities, and new technologies combine to make the OUHSC a leader in education, research, and patient care.

The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine (OUCOM) is the largest component of OUHSC and is the academic arm of OU Health, the state's largest and flagship comprehensive academic health system. The health system and clinical group practice work in concert with the College of Medicine’s educational and research missions. OUCOM, as part of the Health Sciences Center, is on a growth trajectory with an ambitious strategic plan aimed in part at leveraging its strengths to become a top-tier academic health center, enhancing national recognition, bolstering Oklahoma's healthcare and public health workforce, improving health outcomes and quality of life for many Oklahomans, and driving economic growth through the translation of research into commercial enterprises. This Chair will be an impactful contributor and enthusiastic partner in advancing these critical goals.

As an inaugural leader, the Chair will work as a strategic thought partner with and report to the Executive Dean of the OUCOM and will have the unique opportunity to build and develop a new department strategically integrating the components of genetics research that already exist at OUCOM. They will collaborate and align visions with the Dean and the chairs of the other basic science and clinical departments and existing Centers to support fundamental and translational research growth and ensure this new Department of Molecular Genetics and Genome Sciences is fully prepared to fulfill its academic and research mission. The Chair will possess strong scientific judgment and expertise in attracting, recruiting, and retaining leading figures in fundamental, translational, and clinical research. They will prioritize mentorship across faculty, students, staff, and post-doctoral researchers, fostering a culture of excellence in research and education. The Chair will inspire and guide faculty development, leveraging OUHSC's core facilities, collegial environment, and endless opportunities for innovation and growth to attract top recruits. They will also establish the Department's visibility and reputation on national and international platforms.

Applicants for this position should be a PhD, MD, or MD/PhD, be eligible for appointment within the Department, and have a substantial record of leadership and achievement in research and education oversight. Inquiries, nominations, and applications with CVs and letters of interest should be submitted below. Electronic submission is strongly encouraged. 

Ariannah Mirick and Randi Herrick are leading this search with Jane McInerney.

The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to: admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, or health care services that the University operates or provides.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma:

The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Mission of the University of Oklahoma:

The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.