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Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T), one of the nation’s premier technological research universities, invites nominations and applications for the position of Department Chair of Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science (NERS).
This is a rare leadership opportunity for a forward-looking and entrepreneurial academic to guide a department poised for significant growth in both student enrollment and research activity. The next chair will play a central role in shaping the future trajectory of NERS at a pivotal moment of institutional investment and programmatic expansion.
The department is entering a period of rapid advancement, supported by a recently approved multi-million-dollar investment to upgrade and expand its 200 kW MTR-type nuclear reactor. Complementing this infrastructure are modernized laboratory facilities and the addition of a NuScale E2 Simulator, positioning the department at the forefront of experiential nuclear engineering education.
A key strategic priority for the incoming chair will be leadership of the university’s “PowerPlex” initiative—an ambitious effort to establish advanced nuclear capabilities on campus, including the development of a microreactor and integrated thermal energy management systems. This initiative is supported by a newly formed advisory board composed of leading experts from industry and government, providing a strong external network to accelerate impact.
The department and university further benefit from a recently established SUPER agreement with Idaho National Laboratory, creating expanded opportunities for collaborative research, workforce development, and engagement.
The successful candidate will join a dynamic academic environment with the resources, partnerships, and institutional commitment necessary to build a nationally and internationally prominent program.
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This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses.For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 573-341-7734.
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Qualifications
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The Department Chair of Nuclear Engineering and Radiation Science will be an accomplished academic leader with the vision, experience, and collaborative mindset required to advance the department’s mission across education, research, and service. Key qualifications and attributes include:
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute a strategic vision that elevates the department’s national and international reputation in nuclear engineering education and research.
- Proven record of advancing research innovation, including the ability to lead large-scale, interdisciplinary initiatives such as reactor modernization and emerging nuclear energy systems.
- Experience building and sustaining productive partnerships with federal and state agencies, national laboratories, and industry stakeholders.
- Strong commitment to faculty development, including mentoring, supporting, and enabling faculty to expand research productivity and scholarly impact.
- Ability to engage alumni, donors, and external partners to enhance philanthropic support and diversify revenue streams.
- Demonstrated administrative and leadership experience in an academic or research environment, with the capacity to manage complex operations and drive organizational growth.
The successful candidate must hold a terminal degree in nuclear engineering or a closely related discipline and possess a record of achievement commensurate with appointment as a tenured full professor at Missouri S&T.
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Application Materials
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Interested candidates should electronically submit: 1) a detailed cover letter, 2) a curriculum vitae, 3) a perspective on challenges, strategies, and vision for the NERS Department, and 4) contact information for at least four professional references. Application materials are requested to be submitted using Reference Number 60393 at: https://hr.mst.edu/careers/. For questions prior to submitting an application, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Mehdi Ferdowsi at ferdowsi@mst.edu.
Application Deadline
Applications will be reviewed as received, with a full consideration deadline of October 12, 2026.
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