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- Tasks: Lead the School of Science, shaping its future and fostering innovation.
- Company: The University of Newcastle, a hub for academic excellence and research.
- Benefits: Influential leadership role with opportunities for impactful contributions to science education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in science education and research while supporting regional communities.
- Qualifications: Doctoral qualification in science and proven leadership experience.
- Other info: Join a dynamic academic community focused on interdisciplinary collaboration and discovery.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
The University of Newcastle is excited to invite applications for the role of Dean and Head of School of Science — a pivotal leadership opportunity at a time of growth, innovation, and renewed ambition. Formed in January 2026 through the unification of the School of Psychological Sciences and the School of Environmental and Life Sciences, the School of Science is a dynamic and forward‑looking academic community within the College of Engineering, Science and Environment. It brings together eight vibrant disciplines — Biological Science, Chemistry, Earth Science, Environmental Science and Management, Food Science and Human Nutrition, Geography and Environmental Studies, Physics and Psychology — creating a rich environment for interdisciplinary collaboration and discovery.
The School is home to high‑impact, industry‑connected research and enjoys a strong global reputation for excellence. Its researchers are nationally and internationally recognised, and its programs are highly regarded and in demand. The School hosts three stand‑alone research centres — the Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), the Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), and the Centre for Organic Electronics (COE) — each contributing to cutting‑edge research and real‑world impact.
With a commitment to outstanding teaching and transformative student experiences, the School of Science is poised for an exciting next chapter. The Dean and Head of School role offers a rare opportunity to shape that future. It is a multifaceted, people‑centred leadership position with significant influence across strategy, operations, program quality, accreditation, and culture. The successful candidate will champion the School’s development, foster innovation, and build a contemporary, future‑ready school that tackles global challenges and drives excellence in teaching, research, and impact.
As a key member of the College Executive, the Dean and Head of School will help steer the direction of science education and research at Newcastle, uniting a diverse academic community around a shared vision. Based at the Callaghan campus and working across regional locations, the role offers the chance to make a meaningful contribution to science education nationally — with a strong commitment to supporting the needs of regional and rural communities.
Key Requirements
- A doctoral qualification in a science discipline.
- Demonstrated ability to provide academic leadership and operational management in a complex environment.
- Experience working across disciplines within science fields.
- A proven record of securing external research funding and advancing research outcomes.
- A strong profile of scholarly achievement and recognised contributions to science education.
- Proven ability to build strong partnerships with industry, government, and research organisations.
- Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and people leadership skills.
Closing date: Friday, 3rd AEDT.
Dean and Head of School (School of Science) employer: University of Newcastle
Contact Detail:
University of Newcastle Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Dean and Head of School (School of Science)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in academia and industry. Attend events, seminars, or workshops related to science education and research. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills! Prepare to discuss your vision for the School of Science and how you plan to foster innovation and collaboration. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the University of Newcastle thoroughly. Understand their values, goals, and recent initiatives. This will help you tailor your discussions and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re here to support you throughout the process, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
We think you need these skills to ace Dean and Head of School (School of Science)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Dean and Head of School. We want to see how your leadership style and vision can contribute to the growth and innovation at the School of Science.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t hold back on sharing your successes! Whether it’s securing research funding or leading interdisciplinary projects, we’re keen to see your track record. Use specific examples to illustrate your impact in science education and research.
Communicate Clearly: Your written application should be clear and concise. We appreciate well-structured documents that convey your ideas effectively. Remember, this is your chance to demonstrate your outstanding communication skills right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Newcastle
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the School of Science's vision and its interdisciplinary approach. Familiarise yourself with their research centres and recent achievements, as this will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples that highlight your academic leadership and operational management skills. Think about times when you've successfully led teams or projects, especially in complex environments, and be ready to discuss how those experiences can benefit the School.
✨Build Connections
Demonstrate your ability to forge partnerships by discussing past collaborations with industry, government, or research organisations. Highlight any successful funding applications you've secured, as this will showcase your capability to advance research outcomes.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your vision for the future of science education and research. Be prepared to discuss how you would foster innovation and create a culture of excellence within the School, ensuring your communication is clear and engaging throughout the interview.