We are a university where curiosity prevails, and where exploring new ways of thinking and pushing boundaries, isn't just encouraged, it's expected. We are committed to two things: excellence in education and excellence in research. Our ambition is to be acknowledged nationally and internationally as a leading research-intensive university and we are also committed to delivering a transformational educational experience for our students informed by our research. Our students are members of a unique, transformational living and learning community which empowers them with the skills to make a difference to the world around them.We are now seeking to appoint an Executive Dean of Science and Health at a very exciting time in our development. In evaluating progress against our ambitions, we are proud to be in the top 20 for research excellence in the Research Excellence Framework 2014. We're also Gold rated in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2017, top 15 in England for student satisfaction (National Student Survey 2017) and ranked as the 15th most international university in the world (Times Higher Education April 2017). The post has arisen as the term of office for the current Executive Dean, Professor Graham Underwood, will end in July 2019.Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor and a member of the University's executive team (University Steering Group), the Executive Dean (Science and Health) plays a central role in the delivery of the University's Strategic Plan. They provide strategic leadership for the faculty, and take responsibility for its financial management. They also line manage a number of key academic roles. They are directly supported in this by a faculty support team led by a Faculty Manager, and by relevant colleagues in professional support services.The successful candidate will be appointed to a substantive Chair (Professorship) in one of our academic departments, to which they will revert at the conclusion of their term of office, and undertake the full remit of duties of an academic member of staff including education and research. The normal term of appointment to the role of the Executive Dean (Science and Health) is three years, with eligibility for re-appointment for further three years. They may exceptionally be re-appointed for a further period of up to three years making a total of nine years. We recognise that in a research-intensive university research credibility is essential and a percentage of the post will be ring-fenced for research and we will provide research support as necessary.The successful candidate should hold a PhD in a discipline relevant to the University, or have an equivalent level of experience, and have a distinguished academic record, including an internationally excellent research standing. A proven track record of successful academic leadership at a senior level in a higher education institution that includes a broad range of disciplines together with excellent planning skills, allied to well-developed analytical and problem solving skills are also essential. The applicant will need to publish in area that allows the University to submit them to one of our Units of Assessment in REF 2021. Appointment will be made on the Grade 11 scale and will be commensurate with skills and experience. This post also carries a leadership allowance for the term of office.Please visit our dedicated website for further information including a full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application. Applications should be made on-line, but if you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please telephone the Resourcing Team (01206 874588 / 873461 / 873521).At the University of Essex internationalism is central to who we are and what we do. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally-oriented university that is welcoming to staff and students from all countries and a university where you can find the world in one place.