Department Chairs

Department Chairs (Basic Sciences)

Department chairs are appointed by the Dean of SOM based on recommendation by the Senior Associate Dean of basic sciences, who also determines the duration of their appointment. The chairs report to the Senior Associate Dean of basic sciences. Their major responsibilities are as laid out in their letters of appointment and include all aspects of the teaching and management of the Department. This is a stipend administrative appointment and does not fall within the Faculty Senate guidelines for re-appointments and dismissals. Their responsibilities include:

• leading the department in its contribution to the mission and the goals of the university, the school of medicine and the department
• ensuring adherence to institutional policies for curriculum and assessment by departmental faculty and staff in the delivery of all courses supported by the department
• recruitment, retention, evaluation and professional development of departmental faculty and staff
• ensuring the adequate training of and support for faculty to perform their duties withing the department and SOM
• coordinate with the assistant dean of faculty affairs regarding faculty development needs in the department
• preparation and management of the departmental budget
• oversight of departmental policies regarding the administration of courses and examinations
• management of the physical resources required by faculty and staff to perform their duties at a high standard
• recommendation to the Senior Associate Dean of basic sciences regarding appointments of course directors, content managers and faculty promotions
• ensures implementation of a succession plan for all leadership positions within the department
• management and assignment of faculty FTE
• reviewing faculty performance in designated duties and implementing remedial opportunities if necessary
• participation in reviews of courses and departments
• communication with the Senior Associate Dean of basic sciences, in all aspects relating to the performance of the duties herein listed

The chair, or designee, represents the department on all statutory SOM and University bodies requiring departmental input. The chair is required to convene at least two departmental meetings per term and to minute the meetings accordingly.