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POSITION SPECIFICS
Director, Material Research Institute
Penn State is a research powerhouse. A critical component is the Materials Research Institute (MRI), an internationally renowned catalyst for material science. The new Director will build on a legacy of excellence and guide Penn State materials research to the next level.
MRI is one of Penn State's larger research institutes. It has the goal of advancing interdisciplinary excellence and education, facilitating a university-wide culture of collaborative research, and supporting the development and application of innovative materials. With annual expenditure of more than $18M, the institute has a portfolio of over 260 faculty, 50 of which are cofunded. It has superb core facilities for advanced nanofabrication, materials characterization, and materials synthesis. MRI works with researchers from nearly all of Penn State's academic colleges and campuses to facilitate new collaborations, fund new areas of research, and build a research community focused on inclusive excellence. MRI continuously seeks to recruit the best researchers to Penn State and to equip them with the resources and the latest tools to drive their science to new levels.
The Director of MRI reports directly to the Senior Vice President for Research, who oversees university-wide research activity that exceeded $1.44 billion in FY25. Working with Deans and other university leaders to help achieve the University's strategic research priorities, the Director must (1) provide vision and university-wide leadership to advance excellence in research; (2) build bridges and collaborations among the core colleges by developing policies and incentives for faculty participation in innovative, high-impact interdisciplinary research; (3) facilitate an atmosphere of inclusion and excellence drawing on diverse expertise and perspectives; (4) identify new funding opportunities and facilitate the development of large interdisciplinary research programs; (5) facilitate research through seminars, workshops, and symposia; (6) serve as liaison between the University's research and state, national, and international organizations; (7) set strategy for the institute's core facilities to deliver quality resources; and (8) ensure operation excellence and cost efficiency of day-to-day operations for all aspects of the institute; (9) be responsible for 75 full time staff, spanning core facilities, administration, building infrastructure, marketing, and IT.
Penn State ranks under the NSF Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) reports with annual expenditures consistently ranked 1 and 2 in materials science and materials engineering, respectively. A key goal of the director is to maintain the top national ranking.
The successful candidate will possess a selfless, empowering orientation and willingness to prioritize collective success. They must be a U.S. citizen, hold a Ph.D., and have exceptional research and teaching credentials applicable for a tenured professor in an appropriate academic department. There is no time requirement for classroom instruction while serving as Director, but the candidate is expected to spend a portion of their time on their own research. The candidate must also support an exceptional team of staff, faculty and students; provide professional development and opportunities for career advancement; mentor the next generation of interdisciplinary leaders and provide a work environment that positions individuals to do their best work, ranging from opportunities for individuals to excel, teams to be creative, and units to inspire across all Penn State.
The successful candidate must have measurable outcomes showcasing their ability to advance inclusion and leverage resources - space, equipment, funding, infrastructure, and personnel - in strategic and effective ways to achieve objectives. The candidate will have an enthusiasm for fundraising and resource development and the ability to forge new, or novel, opportunities for sponsored research, philanthropic, and industry partnerships, including translation of research into science-technology based solutions, programs, government policies, and practices consistent with Penn State's land grant mission.
The Pennsylvania State University is in central Pennsylvania. Coined Happy Valley for its highly ranked livability, the area is known for its access to nature spanning beautiful mountains, streams, and parks, as well as superb sports and recreational opportunities. The area has excellent schools and offers a multitude of cultural events.
Review of applications will begin on Nov 30, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply on Penn State's Job Posting Board and should submit a letter expressing their interest in this position with a detailed vision statement for advancing Penn State materials research, managing talented faculty and staff to achieve greater impact. Also include a curriculum vitae and contact information for four references. Interested individuals are invited to visit MRI's website for more information about MRI.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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