Associate Dean for Research and Instruction

Associate Dean for Research and Instruction

The University of Cincinnati Libraries (UCL) seeks a strategic, outcomes-focused leader to fill the Associate Dean for Research & Instruction (AD) position. The AD will join the senior leadership team and be a part of continuing the transformation of the research library at the university. As a member of the senior leadership team, the AD works collaboratively to realize the UC Libraries' vision and strategic directions. The AD champions the implementation of the UC Libraries' strategic plan and takes responsibility for meeting goals pertaining to research and instruction. The AD has programmatic, strategic, budgetary, managerial and operational responsibilities for the following libraries and departments in the University of Cincinnati Libraries : Research & Teaching Services, Research & Data Services, Scholarly Communications, Donald C. Harrison Health Sciences Library, College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) Library, Science Library, Robert A. Deshon and Karl J. Schlachter Library for Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) and the College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services (CECH) Library. Other management portfolios may be assigned as the organization adapts to meet the needs of a growing campus community. The AD will develop programs and initiatives for UC Libraries and build collaborative partnerships beyond the organization to move UC Libraries toward its goals.

Relationship and Authority : The AD reports directly to the Dean and University Librarian. The AD has responsibility and authority for library instruction and research services at UC Libraries. In addition, the AD serves as the senior administrator for Research & Teaching Services, Research & Data Services, Scholarly Communications, Donald C. Harrison Health Sciences Library, College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) Library, Science Library, Robert A. Deshon and Karl J. Schlachter Library for Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) and the College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services (CECH) Library.

Essential Functions

• Collaborates with the Dean and senior leaders to identify needs, establish priorities, and develop goals, objectives, actions and measures of success.
• Takes ownership of goals and initiatives within the strategic plan that relate to areas of responsibility.
• Leads the overall strategy and direction of UC Libraries' instruction and research services, including administering policies, procedures and best practices.
• Leads the assessment of the research and instruction needs of faculty and students and develops programs and services to meet those needs.
• Builds strategic and collaborative partnerships with campus leaders to integrate the libraries' collections and services into curricula and research workflows.
• Recruits, hires, evaluates, develops and retains faculty and staff who meet or exceed user expectations.
• Promotes a culture of evidence-based decision making through developing and supporting evaluation and assessment of research and instruction services.
• Achieves organizational effectiveness through the successful management of financial and personnel resources.
• Fosters a workplace culture where those from all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives can succeed.
• Chairs and serves on committees related to areas of responsibility or assigned by the Dean.
• Represents UC Libraries at regional, national and global professional engagements with the expectation of raising UC Libraries' visibility and reputation.

Required Education

Graduate degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA accredited program.

Required Experience

Additional Qualifications Considered

Application Process

Applications without a cover letter and CV / Resume will not be considered for the position. 3 References will be checked during final stages. For first consideration, applications must be received by January 4, 2026.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

UC offers an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and work-life balance. Eligibility varies by position and FTE. Highlights include :

Comprehensive Tuition Remission

UC provides tuition remission for you and your eligible dependents, covering tuition costs for nearly all undergraduate and graduate programs offered by the university.

Robust Retirement Plans

As a UC employee, you won't contribute to Social Security (except Medicare). Instead, you'll choose between state pension plans (OPERS, STRS) or an Alternative Retirement Plan (ARP), with UC contributing 1418% of your salary based on position.

Real Work-Life Balance

UC prioritizes work-life balance with a generous time-off policy, including :

Vacation and sick time

11 paid holidays and additional end-of-year paid time off (Winter Season Days)

6 weeks of paid parental leave for new parents

Additional Benefits Include :

For questions about the UC recruiting process or to request accommodations with the application, please contact Human Resources at jobs@uc.edu .

Equal Opportunity Employer . Building a workplace where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment, including Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans.