Responsibilities:

The holder of the Donovan Chair will encourage women enrolled in UA undergraduate and graduate engineering programs to undertake and complete engineering degrees. The Chair holder will work to generate interest in studying math and science among female elementary and high school students, as well as support programs to achieve this end. Mrs. Donovan and The University of Akron College of Engineering and Polymer Science believe that the establishment of the permanent Donovan Chair will level the playing field and make engineering education more accessible for women.

Applicants are expected to contribute to our core mission in teaching and research as well as establish outreach activities that increase women’s participation in engineering for K-12, undergraduate, and graduate students. Successful candidates will be expected to develop an independent, extramurally funded research program, and have a passionate interest in teaching and mentorship.

The Donovan Chair will:

• Be held by a top-flight professor in the College of Engineering and Polymer Science. Candidates will be a tenured faculty member, with female candidates being strongly encouraged to apply;
• Be a lightning rod for change; and
• Be national, not just regional, in scope

Beyond the Chair’s work as a role model, objectives would be to:

• Generate interest in studying math and science from elementary grades through high school
• Encourage choice by helping high school girls see college/program choices as clear links to their careers; and,
• Sustain women enrolled in the College of Engineering and Polymer Science on their paths to completing engineering degrees.

Additionally, the Chair holder shall be an academician with a strong and demonstrated history of active support of women in engineering programs.

Required Qualifications:

Candidates should have a Doctoral degree in Biomedical Engineering or a closely related discipline with a biomedical engineering emphasis. Research publications and teaching record should be consistent with the appointment of associate professor with tenure.

Preferred Qualifications:

Post-doctoral training is preferable but not required. Prior experience and a commitment to continue working with and teaching diverse populations will be valued. Research experience in all related fields in Biomedical Engineering will be considered.