Director, Johnson-Turpin Center for Gerontological Nursing 2025-26

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing is seeking an experienced mid-career or senior faculty to take on the role of Director for the Johnson-Turpin Center for Gerontological Nursing. Qualified candidates are those whose education, perspectives, and experience enable them to provide visionary leadership and strategic direction to advance the center's mission of enhancing the quality of life for older adults through excellence in nursing education, research, and practice. This role involves overseeing program development, securing funding, fostering collaborative partnerships, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality gerontological nursing care.

This is for a full-time tenured faculty position. Faculty appointment will be at a rank consistent with qualifications and experience.

Responsibilities include:

• Refine and implement the Center's strategic plan, in alignment with the institution's goals.
• Oversee daily operations, including budget, staffing, and resource allocation.
• Provide leadership in the development and implementation of innovative gerontological nursing programs and services.
• Design, implement, and evaluate educational programs and curricula focused on gerontological nursing.
• Ensure the integration of evidence-based practices into all programs and initiatives.
• Monitor and assess program effectiveness and make necessary adjustments to meet the needs of older adults and their families.
• Promote and facilitate research initiatives that advance the field of gerontological nursing.
• Secure external funding through research grants and partnerships to support research activities.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and professional networks.
• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with academic, healthcare, and community organizations.
• Engage in advocacy efforts to influence policies and practices that impact the care of older adults.
• Represent the center at local, national, and international forums and conferences.
• Recruit, mentor, and support faculty and staff involved in gerontological nursing education and research.
• Provide opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive environment that encourages innovation and excellence.
• Promote student involvement in gerontological nursing initiatives and research projects.
• Provide guidance and support to students pursuing careers in gerontological nursing.
• Ensure a supportive learning environment that addresses the unique needs of students.
• Implement continuous quality improvement processes to enhance program outcomes.
• Utilize data and feedback to drive decision-making and program enhancements.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral degree (e.g., PhD, DNP, EdD) in nursing or a related field with a focus on gerontology. Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in the field of gerontology, including leadership roles. Strong leadership and organizational abilities. Excellent communication skills. Proven track record in securing significant external research funding and managing grants. Ability to build and sustain collaborative partnerships.

Preferred Qualifications

Current licensure as a professional registered nurse. Experience in academic leadership at a school of nursing. Success obtaining NIH funding to support related research and publications. Relevant certifications in gerontological nursing.

Applicants can access this position at The University of Texas at Austin job site and will be prompted to submit a CV, letter of interest, and 3 professional references. The selection committee may request additional materials from finalists, specifically addressing the faculty portion of this position. Materials may include a teaching statement, teaching evaluations, etc. Finalists may be asked to give a seminar to highlight their vision and relevant experience.

Additional questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Kavita Radhakrishnan, Search Committee Chair, at kradhakrishnan@mail.nur.utexas.edu.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.