Introduction
The Department of Sustainable Biomaterials in the College of Natural Resources and Environment (CNRE) at Virginia Tech invites nominations and applications for the position of Department Head in the Department of Sustainable Biomaterials. We seek a visionary and strategic leader with exceptional communication skills who can guide the department through a dynamic period of growth, opportunity, and change within the discipline, and across the college, university, and national levels. The position will include an appointment as Professor with tenure in the department.
Department Overview
The Department of Sustainable Biomaterials in the College of Natural Resources and Environment at Virginia Tech is internationally recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and engagement with a focus on sustainable bioeconomies. Faculty expertise spans sustainable biomaterials science and engineering, packaging systems design and engineering, sustainable manufacturing, and industrial ecology.
The department maintains strong collaborations with industry, trade organizations, government partners, and academic units across the university. With an emphasis on innovation and interdisciplinary approaches, faculty and students address critical global challenges.
The department strives to foster a collegial and collaborative environment that values open communication, strong leadership, and the ability to adapt to change. It is home to faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to advancing knowledge and preparing the next generation of leaders.
Position Responsibilities
The Department Head provides strategic leadership, vision, and administrative oversight for all aspects of the department’s teaching, research, and outreach missions. Responsibilities include faculty and staff recruitment, mentorship, and evaluation; budget and resource management; fostering industry, state, and federal agency partnerships; stewarding alumni relationships; facilitating external funding success; and advancing the department’s reputation across Virginia Tech, the nation, and the world. The Department Head will also serve as a key member of the CNRE leadership team and collaborate on initiatives that strengthen the college’s contributions to the university’s land-grant mission.
