Director

Center for Genetic Diseases

Rosalind Franklin University

of Medicine and Science

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) seeks an innovative, ambitious research scientist for the role of Director of the Center for Genetic Diseases (CGD). This is an exciting opportunity to lead the growth of a recently established research center to a new level of excellence and discovery with a continued significant impact in genetic diseases research. It is expected that the new Director will be a strategic and inspiring leader at the cutting edge of research.

Ideal candidates on the tenure-track Associate or Full Professor level will have a strong research portfolio and record of achievement in DNA/RNA biology of genetic diseases and/or novel gene-based therapeutic strategies for the treatment of genetic diseases at the basic science, translational or clinical levels. The ideal candidate will have a national or international reputation in their field and a track record of high-impact research. This individual will be highly energetic and collaborative. The successful candidate will have strong personal and professional integrity, fairness and flexibility, the ability to recruit faculty, and a deep commitment to diversity and inclusion. We offer an exceptionally rich environment for creative interdisciplinary biomedical research in the recently opened Innovation and Research Park on campus with high-performance computing facilities, state-of-the-art laboratory space and equipment, and a full-time administrator to support the research activities of its faculty. A wealth of institutional core facilities are available to support the research mission.

The Center for Genetic Diseases was established to solidify a key area of research excellence at RFU. The Director will work with the Executive Vice President for Research to craft and execute a shared vision for the building and success of the Center. The Director will partner with senior leadership to recruit world-class researchers to expand and elevate the Center’s prominence and impact and will set ambitious goals for scholarly productivity and research funding through individual and multi-PI grants, philanthropy, and the development of the innovative intellectual property. The Director will promote a vibrant, collaborative, and collegial environment, and will actively develop interdisciplinary partnerships and collaborations with researchers across RFU and with industry partners. We offer competitive start-up funds, laboratory space, salary, and the opportunity to recruit and hire new faculty for the center.

The new Director will hold a faculty appointment in the Chicago Medical School with a 12-month hard salary and expectation that primary effort is devoted to research, with a small contribution to teaching at the university. Founded more than 100 years ago, the Chicago Medical School is one of 6 colleges of Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, enrolling a total of 2000 students, named in honor of Dr. Rosalind Franklin’s pioneering contributions to modern biology. RFU is known for its innovative, collaborative culture and excellence in interdisciplinary biomedical and health-related research and education. RFU also comprises 13 research centers and institutes. Located in the city of North Chicago, between Chicago and Milwaukee, this area offers the nearby big city benefits in a suburban environment, with a rich diversity of cultures, religions, and heritages.

Inclusiveness and diversity are integral to Chicago Medical School’s commitment to excellence in research, engagement, and education, and we encourage applications from candidates that identify with groups that are historically underrepresented in biomedical science and medicine. 

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science has retained the national executive search firm Isaacson, Miller to assist with this important recruitment. Inquiries or nominations and applications should be directed in confidence to Jean Jacoby, Managing Associate at Isaacson, Miller via www.imsearch.com/8776. Applications should include a CV with a cover letter, a research statement that includes prior research accomplishments and future research plans, and contact information for three references. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and is dedicated to creating and fostering a diverse academic environment. Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is especially seeking and encouraging nominations and applications from individuals belonging to groups underrepresented in their respective fields, as well as others who would enrich and add unique perspectives to the University. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, military status or family status.