Professor and Chair, Department of Systems Biology

The Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons (VP&S) at Columbia University Irving Medical Center seeks to fill a position for the Chair of the Department of Systems of Biology. Applicants should be eligible for award of tenure at Columbia University and will be nominated for an endowed professorship. We welcome applications from outstanding scientists with an international reputation in the fields of or related to systems biology and other related areas.

VP&S has a storied history of basic science, translational medicine, clinical care, education/training and outreach for more than 250 years. It is part of a stellar university and comprises 30 basic and clinical departments, and more than 20 cross-disciplinary centers and institutes. The Department of Systems of Biology is nationally and internationally renowned with distinguished scientists and a tradition of key discoveries. The Department is committed to the tenets of discovery science and applications to other disciplines, training and education of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, and nurturing of junior faculty as the next generation of scientific leaders.

The candidate will be expected to develop innovative research programs for the Department of Systems of Biology. The candidate will also be expected to conduct vibrant, externally funded research, as well as participate in graduate and medical student teaching. The candidate is expected to provide strategic vision and direction for advancing the understanding of complex biological systems through interdisciplinary approaches and leverage interactions with the nine basic science departments at VP&S, the NYP Hospital, the New York Genome Center, the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub New York, and other scientific institutes, to develop and run a robust systems biology program.

Responsibilities:

• Leadership: Provide visionary leadership for the Department of Systems Biology, guiding its strategic development and fostering a culture of excellence in research, teaching, and service.
• Research: Lead a dynamic research program focused on elucidating the principles underlying complex biological systems, integrating computational modeling, experimental biology, and data science approaches.
• Collaboration: Facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations both within the department and across other departments, centers and initiatives, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
• Teaching and Mentorship: Contribute to graduate education through the development and delivery of courses in Systems Biology, as well as mentorship of students at all levels.
• Grant Acquisition: Secure external funding to support research activities, including grant writing and sponsorship of research proposals.
• Professional Service: Engage actively in professional societies, scientific committees, and outreach activities to promote Systems Biology research and education.
• Promote career advancement and international visibility of junior and mid-career faculty in and outside the department.
• Actively participate in providing long-term strategic vision for Columbia University Irving Medical Center to advance basic and translational research in coordination with other departments, centers and programs.

• Applicants should have a PhD, MD, MD/PhD or equivalent degree, substantial national and international stature, and expertise in managing large-scale research programs. The candidate is expected to provide leadership for the Department of Systems of Biology, and articulate a vision for its continued growth, supported with a firm commitment to the recruitment of multiple new faculty members and facilities to match the recruitments.
• Distinguished record of scholarly achievements, including a significant publication record in leading scientific journals and a demonstrated ability to secure external research funding.
• Demonstrated international leadership in the field of systems biology, through organization of conferences and serving on funding and award committees.
• Leadership experience in academic or research settings, with a proven track record of fostering collaboration and promoting excellence.
• Strong commitment to graduate and/or medical education, including a record of effective teaching and mentorship. Experience in mentorship of junior scientists and mid-career scientists will be considered as a plus.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

The search committee is especially interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching and/or service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community. Columbia University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. The University is dedicated to the goal of building a culturally diverse and pluralistic faculty and staff committed to teaching and working in a diverse environment, and strongly encourages applications from women, underrepresented minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.

Please send a cover letter of interest, Curriculum Vitae, a leadership vision for the Department and a scientific vision statement that includes current and future research interests. Applicants are encouraged to describe in their letter of intent how their scholarship contributes to building and supporting diverse communities.

All applications must be submitted via Interfolio. If you have any questions, please email: OfficeofKArmstrong@cumc.columbia.edu