DescriptionSouthern Methodist University (SMU) invites applications and nominations for an accomplished scholar and academic leader to serve as
Chair of the Department of History during a period of significant growth and opportunity. The successful candidate will hold a tenured appointment at the rank of
Professor and will assume the chair position beginning
August 1, 2027. The field of academic specialization is open.
The Department of History is comprised of a vibrant community of scholars committed to excellence in research, teaching, and service. It supports robust programs for majors and minors, in addition to meeting vital curricular needs across the campus. The department has a strong PhD program in United States history, to which all members of the department in and out of that field contribute. It also offers MAs in both US and Global history. It collaborates closely with the Clements Center for Southwest Studies and the Center for Presidential History. The University provides access to first-rate archival collections, including the new Rees-Jones Library for the American West, DeGolyer Library, Bridwell Library, and the George W. Bush Presidential Library. The next chair will have an exceptional opportunity to work with faculty, students, college leadership, and university partners to advance the department's academic mission and long-term vision.
The OpportunityThe Department Chair will provide strategic, academic, and administrative leadership for the department while working collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, the Dean, and university leadership.
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Collaboratively build and implement an ambitious vision for the department's academic and scholarly future;
- Support excellence in research, graduate education, and undergraduate education.
- Work with faculty and the Dean to identify strategic priorities for faculty hiring and program development;
- Advocate effectively for the department and represent it within the College and University;
- Recruit, mentor, and retain outstanding faculty; support the professional development of junior scholars; and support external funding opportunities for faculty at all levels;
- Oversee departmental budgets, resources, personnel, and academic programs in collaboration with college leadership;
- Foster a collegial, inclusive, and intellectually vibrant departmental culture.
- Encourage interdisciplinary research and collaboration within Dedman College and across SMU; and
- Engage constructively with students and contribute to the broader educational mission of SMU.
The chair will join a university committed to intellectual diversity, academic freedom, rigorous inquiry, and the development of students as ethical and engaged leaders.
QualificationsCandidates must hold an earned Ph.D.and have a distinguished record of scholarly achievement commensurate with appointment at the rank of tenured Professor.
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
- A distinguished record of research, scholarship, or creative achievement in the field of history;
- Demonstrated academic leadership and administrative experience;
- Demonstrated excellence in advising and mentoring graduate students, including doctoral students, and interest in making significant contributions to the department's graduate program;
- Demonstrated excellence in teaching at the undergraduate level;
- A record of effective faculty collaboration and shared governance;
- The ability to articulate a compelling vision for the future of the department; and
- The interpersonal and organizational skills necessary to lead an academic department effectively.
Candidates with experience in interdisciplinary research, program development, external funding, faculty recruitment, or strategic academic planning are especially encouraged to apply.
Application Instructions Applicants should submit the following materials through
https://apply.interfolio.com/193610.- A cover letter describing the candidate's qualifications for the position, research and scholarly accomplishments, teaching experience, and vision for leadership of the Department of History;
- Curriculum vitae;
- A statement of leadership philosophy and administrative experience; and
- Contact information for three professional references.
Applications received by October 30, 2026 will receive full consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.
The anticipated start date is August 1, 2027.
