Head of Department

The Department of Biological Sciences in the Faculty of Science & Informatics at MTU, Bishopstown, Cork delivers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. These include the BSc in Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology and the BSc in Food & Health Science, the BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, the BSc (Hons) in Nutrition and Health Science, the BSc (Hons) in AgriBiosciences (each of these BSc (Hons) programmes can be accessed in the third year either through our level 8 two-year Common Entry Biology programme or via ab initio entry). The Department also offers a BSc (Hons) programme in Biomedical Science in partnership with UCC (joint programme) and a Specialist Diploma in Clinical Laboratory Practice. The department also delivers two taught, parttime online MSc programmes, one in Computational Biology and the other in Nutrition and Health Analytics. The Department of Biological Sciences has a longstanding, energetic commitment to high quality and impactful research, supporting the full spectrum of activity from basic to applied research, generation of intellectual property and commercialisation of research outputs. The Department currently supports a thriving research community of research postgraduate students and postdoctoral scientists, and this valuable resource continues to strengthen the teaching and depth of laboratory research project work available to undergraduate students. Duties of the Post: The appointee will be responsible through the Dean of Faculty/President for the efficient and effective management and control of the assigned Department, and for its development in accordance with the Universitys policies and plans. The appointee will lead, direct and manage the academic programmes at Department level including teaching, research, programme development and design, academic assessment and academic administration. The appointee will act as advisor and leader in quality assurance issues and will implement agreed quality assurance procedures and other procedures including progression, complaints processing, grievance and disciplinary matters. The appointee will manage and direct the staff of the Department including timetabling and evaluating staff performance. The appointee will work with the Dean of Faculty to develop, agree, implement and manage Faculty and Department policy. The appointee will carry out such duties as are assigned by the Dean of Faculty as appropriate, including but not limited to: Developing a rolling strategic and operational plan for the Department consistent with Faculty and University objectives and ensuring the staff are continuously advised on plans, policy and other necessary matters. Providing overall management and administration of the Department, including managing the Department budget and maintaining records and making available information as required by Senior Management. Playing a leading role in the development, implementation and maintenance of academic quality assurance arrangements. Providing academic leadership and scholarship on existing and new courses, in course development and in course co-ordination. Directing and supervising the work of members of staff of the Department, including evaluating staff performance and acting in an advisory capacity and as a professional support in academic matters to colleagues. Advising on and participating in recruiting suitably qualified staff and managing, in consultation with the Dean of Faculty and other relevant members of University management, the development and implementation of a staff development programme for the Department. Participating in appropriate activities, including external activities, necessary to the development and promotion of the Department, Faculty and the University; advising on and participating in the promotion and marketing of the Department, Faculty and University, its research, and its courses including the preparation of marketing literature and brochures and advising on student intake. Teaching classes for up to 105 hours per annum and carrying out assessment, monitoring and evaluation of examination work and providing an academic and consultative support to students in their learning activities. Working with the Central Management Team and other Heads of Department as required and participating in committees as required. Liaising with awarding bodies, trade and professional organisations, government agencies, as required. Carrying out such other appropriate duties as may be assigned by the Dean of Faculty. The appointee will carry out the lawful instructions of the President or authorising officer and comply with the requirements and regulations of the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. Qualification Requirements and Selection Criteria for role: Essential: (i) A first or second class level 8 honours degree in Biological Sciences or a related discipline from a recognised degree awarding authority. OR (ii) An equivalent relevant professional qualification obtained through examination. AND (iii) Not less than five years relevant professional experience in industry, research, or teaching subsequent to obtaining the above-mentioned qualification. Desirable: A relevant post-graduate degree, ideally at doctorate level by a recognised degree awarding authority and/or relevant equivalent qualification obtained through examination. Applicants should have a background in development, delivery of programmes and engagement with industry and research related to the activities of the Department. Applicants should have well documented organisational, leadership, interpersonal and communication skills. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend for interview. A short presentation will be required evidencing the candidates appropriateness for the role. A successful candidate will be required to submit a passport, documentary evidence confirming academic qualifications, and to undergo a medical examination. Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance may also be required. References will be sought in relation to the successful candidate. MTU welcomes applications from non-EEA citizens. However, employee permit regulations set by the relevant Departments must be strictly adhered to. Any appointment offers to Non-EEA candidates is subject to the granting of a work permit by the relevant Government Department and/or relevant Immigration permissions/stamp. Candidates may be required to produce documentary evidence to support any statements made by them on their application form or any supporting documentation. Candidates should note that any inaccurate information will invalidate their application. Application Process: Applications by MTU eRecruitment system only. Applications will not be accepted in any other format or through any other channel of communication. Please log on to apply for this position. The information given in this document is of a general information nature only and should not be taken as contractual. Closing date for receipt of completed e-applications is 1.00 pm on Friday, 19 September 2025. MTU is an equal opportunities employer. Skills: Qualifications relevant to the role Not less than 5yrs relevant experience Background in development & delivery of programmes