Position Summary

Michigan State University actively promotes a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives, and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry

The Department of Psychology seeks a Chairperson who will be responsible for leading a large academic unit with a clear vision and set of future goals. The role involves a variety of administrative duties, including managing budgets and staff, conducting annual and reappointment, promotion, and tenure (RPT) review processes, as well as hosting departmental events and commencements. The role also involves regular collaborative meetings with the department’s undergraduate and graduate associate chairs to administrate academic curricula, monthly meetings with the department faculty advisory committee to discuss emerging strategic initiatives and issues and regular meetings with the Department Administrator. To execute these roles successfully, the ideal candidate will have a strong record of leadership with demonstrated excellence in scholarship, teaching, mentorship and service to the profession and department including evidence of inclusive excellence. This chairperson position is a full-time, annual (12-month) position that will begin August 16, 2026. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Psychology or related field

Minimum Requirements

• All applicants must have a Ph.D. in psychology or a related field. 
• Advanced Associate or Full Professor

Desired Qualifications

• Full Professor preferred. 
• Desired qualifications include:
  1. Have demonstrated leadership at MSU and/or in their professional duties and associations, 
  2. Managerial/ administrative experience in areas such as budgets and staff supervision, 
  3. Clear vision and set of goals for the Department, evidence of past and/or potential contributions to MSU’s institutional priorities, and high levels of task conscientiousness in completing work, 
  4. Knowledge of and evidence of working across research areas in the department, 
  5. Evidence of fostering cohesiveness such as engaging, fostering, or leading collaborations within their program and/or extending outside of their program or department, 
  6. Capacity and commitment to advocating for the department and elevating its stature at MSU and beyond, and 
  7. Record of strong scholarship, teaching and mentoring excellence, and high levels of service to the profession and department, including evidence of enhancing inclusive excellence. 

Required Application Materials

• CV
• A statement of interest that describes the applicant’s relevant experience and fit with desired position qualifications as well as their plans for creating a supportive and respectful environment across all levels of the department (e.g., faculty, staff, graduate students, undergraduate students). The applicant should also discuss their leadership and administrative vision for the department. (2-3 pages, single-spaced, maximum)
• Names and contact information for three references (1 faculty member, 1 staff member, 1 former (not current) graduate student mentee)

Special Instructions

Inquiries regarding this position should be directed to Dr. Kelly Klump (klump@msu.edu). Applicants should apply in EBS using the tile “Careers @ MSU", posting number "1084073".

Review of Applications Begins On

10/10/2025

Website

HTTPS://PSYCHOLOGY.MSU.EDU/

Department Statement

The Department of Psychology is dedicated to advancing psychological science through multidisciplinary research and providing a world-class education for our undergraduate and graduate students. As part of the College of Social Science at a land grant university, our department’s broader mission is to conduct research that transforms lives and inspires leaders on our campus, in Michigan communities, and across the world. 

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.