Chair, Department of Biomedical Engineering chez Case Western Reserve University

The Case School of Engineering (CSE) and the School of Medicine (SOM) at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) invite applications for the position of chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME) reporting to the deans of both schools. The new BME Chair will lead the department, collaborating closely with the leadership, faculty, and staff of both schools to further the department's trajectory. The position is anticipated to start in January 2026.

The institution seeks a leader with the vision necessary for developing and strengthening an innovative department that integrates biomedical engineering research and collaboration among university departments as well as affiliate hospital programs.  In addition, the department has exceptional undergraduate and graduate programs that provide high-quality interdisciplinary training. The new chair will be supported by an endowed professorship.

The unified campus at CWRU encourages and facilitates collaborative interactions among researchers in the Schools of Medicine, Engineering, Nursing, Dentistry, and the College of Arts and Sciences as well as with other leading medical research organizations including the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospital, Louise Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, and MetroHealth. The new chair will be expected to lead the department’s research and teaching programs and to draw on diverse regional and national resources and opportunities to catalyze new enterprises with faculty at affiliated hospitals.

The department aims to move research from the lab to the patient through the Case-Coulter Translational Research Partnership, a national center dedicated to technology translation and commercialization. Research missions are supported by excellent core facilities and research centers that incorporate a broad spectrum of basic science and clinical research.

The department is comprised of thirty-five primary faculty and numerous research and associated faculty along with research and administrative staff. Together, this team helps to lead BME curricular innovation and provide cutting-edge research opportunities and hands-on translational research to undergraduate, Master’s, and doctoral students.

Appointment as a Professor of Biomedical Engineering with tenure is anticipated and requires evidence of (i) leadership of a productive research program recognized at the national and international level; (ii) a consistent record of excellence in teaching, program development, student mentoring, and the continued development of young researchers; (iii) a major and recognized leadership role in key school, university and professional committees or initiatives. More information on standards for tenure can be viewed in the bylaws of the Case School of Engineering and School of Medicine. Biomedical engineering faculty members are designated at the time of initial appointment as being principally based in the School of Medicine or the Case School of Engineering. The principal designation will determine which School’s pre-tenure period and which School’s process and qualifications and standards for appointment, promotion, and award of tenure shall govern the appointment. In other respects, faculty in the department shall enjoy the rights and privileges and duties and responsibilities of faculty in both Schools.

The capacity for imaginative programming and a vigorous collaborative spirit are also essential characteristics.

Applicants for this position must have a Ph.D. degree with a distinguished record of scientific achievement and expertise in the education and mentorship of both students and faculty, along with a strong record of ethical behavior. The role encompasses leadership skills, along with administrative duties, including budgeting, personnel mentoring and management, policy compliance, guiding difficult conversations, and facilitating synergistic collaboration that cultivates and sustains a thriving environment.      

Applicants should submit four attachments: 1) curriculum vitae; 2) letter of interest that includes a brief summary of your academic background and why you are interested in this opportunity; 3) a vision for the role of the BME department within the university to prepare the next generation of biomedical engineering leaders and researchers; 4) leadership style statement detailing how your leadership approach aligns with the schools' strategic plans and collaborative partners, and provides concrete examples of administrative experience, including team management, program development, and operational oversight. The search process is also expected to include meetings with school and university leadership and presentations to the department and the CSE Executive Committee about the candidate’s goals and vision for their tenure as chair.

For questions or to apply please contact: Vipin Chaudhry and John Chae, Co-Chairs, BME Department Chair Search Advisory Committee, c/o [email protected].