LAS Announces Internal Search for New Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education
Author: Troy Rutter
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) is launching an internal search for a new associate dean for research and graduate education, a consolidated leadership role that will unify the responsibilities currently held by two half-time associate deans. This strategic move reflects the college’s commitment to strengthening its research enterprise and enhancing graduate education through a more integrated and focused approach.
The new associate dean will work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and university partners to advance the college’s research and graduate training missions. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of research and graduate education across the college’s diverse academic landscape.
“As an R-1 research university, it’s important that we maintain a role in the dean’s office that can advocate for, and strategize, faculty and student research,” Benjamin C. Withers, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences said. “Our new associate dean of research and graduate education will draw on a comprehensive span of knowledge to articulate our innovative research expertise and the significant impact we make, across our widely diverse disciplines.”
Some of the key responsibilities will include analyzing research strengths and strategic opportunities, managing internal funds and awards, and representing the college in university-wide initiatives. The associate dean will also oversee resources and college support like the LAS External Research Support (LASERS) team. Another key role will be to role model and help facilitate building cross-disciplinary research teams and initiatives.
The associate dean will guide the college’s development and implementation of graduate program policies, provide guidance on graduate support and conflict resolution, and serve as liaison between LAS, the Graduate College, and ISU Administration. They will also manage graduate student tuition assistance, fellowships, and other funding.
“Graduate programs have a very important role in both the student’s academic goals and faculty research,” Withers said. “Faculty and graduate students support each other, and bringing these two positions together will naturally enhance both.”
Faculty members with a strong record of scholarship, administrative experience, and a commitment to inclusive excellence are encouraged to apply.
The full posting can be found on Workday. For guaranteed consideration, applications must be received by September 2, 2025.