The Department of Kinesiology and Health in the College of Health and Human Sciences at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, seeks a Professor and Chair of the department. Applications are sought for a visionary leader with a commitment to excellence and innovation and demonstrated capacity to lead the department in support of the College’s mission of expanding human potential in the education of undergraduate and graduate students, interdisciplinary/transdisciplinary research, and extension and outreach.
The Chair is the designated executive officer of the department with multiple responsibilities for leadership, including the creation and implementation of a strategic vision and plan, guiding the efforts of tenure-eligible and term faculty, staff, and management and maintenance of department facilities and spaces. The successful candidate will be a skilled leader, with demonstrated capacity in strategic decision making, creative problem solving, and transparent and timely communication.
Initial Chair appointment is for five years with formal review in the fourth year. This individual serves at the pleasure of the dean, and the Chair reports to the Dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences and the position is a 12-month appointment. The proposed start date is July 1, 2026.
The successful applicant for this position will:
Provide visionary leadership to serve the needs of faculty, staff, students, stakeholders and citizens to fulfill the land-grant mission of the department, college, and university
Be a collaborative member of college leadership teams across the college and department
Communicate effectively the mission, vision, and strengths of the department and college within Iowa State University and to external stakeholders and collaborators in the public and private sectors
Manage budget, personnel, and other resources to achieve the mission of the department and comply with college and university-level policies and practices
Facilitate the professional development of others and provide mentorship
Foster an environment in which all faculty and staff work toward the department’s purposes and are evaluated for their contributions
Assist faculty, staff, and graduate students to attain resources through extramural funding by encouraging a culture of collaboration and innovation
Participate in representational activities on behalf of the department and college
Contribute to the mission of the department through teaching, research, extension, and/or service
Ph.D. or equivalent degree in disciplines or fields of study within the Department of Kinesiology and Health
A record of scholarly accomplishment to qualify for tenure in the Department of Kinesiology and Health at the rank of professor
Demonstrated accomplishments in mentoring, facilitating the professional development of others, and team building
Demonstrated evidence of collaboration and goal planning
Demonstrated evidence of personnel and budget management
Leadership experience
Demonstrated commitment to undergraduate, graduate, and professional student education
Demonstrated capability in curricular planning and development
Demonstrated understanding of advancing research and extension and outreach enterprises
The Department of Kinesiology and Health is one of five units in the College of Health and Human Sciences, with 12 tenure-track faculty, 16 term faculty members, and 12 Professional and Scientific staff. Faculty, staff, and graduate students contribute to a vibrant culture of scholarly inquiry and externally supported research, advancing knowledge and practice.
Approximately 1100 undergraduate students pursue majors in kinesiology and health, making it one of the largest academic departments in the university. The Department also offers a master’s degree in athletic training, master’s degree in digital health, and both master’s and Ph.D. degrees in kinesiology. Currently, more than 80 graduate students are enrolled in these programs. The Department includes the Exercise Clinic, 15 research laboratories (including biomechanics, clinical vascular exercise intervention, and microscopy and histology), and 5 teaching laboratories (including athletic training, biomechanics/motor control, and exercise physiology). Department laboratories are well equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Faculty research and teaching interests address biomechanical, neuromotor, physiological, cellular/molecular, epidemiological, and psychological perspectives of human movement, physical activity, and health. Engagement with local communities plays a vital role in the Department’s mission. Department faculty and staff value a high level of collegiality and a strong commitment to students.
Kinesiology and Health Department: https://kin.hs.iastate.edu
College of Health and Human Sciences: https://hs.iastate.edu/
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
3) Contact Information for Three References
For guaranteed consideration, please submit your applications by January 5, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Faculty enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program