Head, Dentistry at James Cook University

• Shape strategic direction and outcomes
• Lead continuous improvements to meet sector and community needs
• Supportive team, with outstanding culture and facilities

James Cook University (JCU) seeks an outstanding individual to contribute to the leadership, vision, management and performance of the College of Medicine and Dentistry as Disciplinary Head of Dentistry.  The role is based at the JCU Cairns Nguma-bada campus, based in Smithfield, which offers cutting edge facilities in a lush tropical setting, providing students with access to advanced technology and clinical simulation laboratories, ensuring hands-on experience and support.  JCU Dentistry is ranked first in Australia by the Good Universities Guide 2023 for full-time employment and median salary.

Reporting to the Dean of the College, this important role provides strategic leadership and management, leading the ongoing development of an innovative dentistry curriculum which is closely aligned with the priority needs of the communities that JCU serves.  Leading a collaborative and supportive team, the Disciplinary Head will lead the development and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate dental programs, ensuring continued accreditation and quality.

With postgraduate qualifications in dentistry and extensive clinical experience in dental practice, the ideal candidate will bring a track record in academic leadership, with demonstrated experience in coordinating and teaching undergraduate and/or postgraduate programs in dentistry.  A collegiate leader with outstanding communication and influencing skills, the appointee will be able to foster relationships with diverse stakeholder groups, including with government, professional bodies, the broader healthcare sector and the community, representing and advocating for the College and the University.  Scholarly success in dentistry, including a substantial research record, grant success and postgraduate supervisions will be highly regarded.

The Head, Dentistry will hold (or be eligible to attain) full registration with the Dental Board of Australia as a dental practitioner.

The successful candidate will be personally aligned with the University’s core values of excellence; authenticity; integrity; and respect. 

The Organisation

James Cook University (JCU) aims to create a brighter future for life in the tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally, globally and worldwide, through graduates and discoveries that make a difference.  Renowned for its excellence in teaching and learning, the University has over 20,000 students and 4,000 staff across campuses in Townsville, Cairns, Singapore and Brisbane, with additional study centres in Mackay, Mount Isa and Thursday Island.  JCU proudly boasts strong rankings in graduate job outcomes, ranked first in Australia for full time employment (QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019-21) and first in Queensland (Good Universities Guide 2023).

For more information about JCU, visit: jcu.edu.au.

Applications close: 15 October 2023.