Chair of Responsible Data Science

Key Skills

Cloud computing, Software Development, Data Architecture, Distributed systems

Job Description

The University of Virginia (UVA) School of Data Science (SDS) has an exciting opportunity for a distinguished scholar who will also serve as the inaugural Quantitative Foundation Endowed Chair of Responsible Data Science. This is a pivotal position in the development of the school, which was founded with support from the Quantitative Foundation, the largest gift in the university’s 200-year history. A start date is negotiable.

As we move to a data-centric society, SDS seeks to distinguish itself through the definition and practice of responsible data science. Such an outcome requires close cooperation between STEM, social science, humanities, policy and law, leading to the iterative development of a culture of responsibility around data and computation. This helps to create a culture that promotes societal benefit and works to educate all stakeholders as to the nefarious as well as unintentional possibilities of the use of data science methods and techniques. The strengths of the UVA in developing global thinkers, trained to be socially responsible leaders makes it an ideal place for responsible data science and a new form of higher education exemplified by the School of Data Science - a “School without Walls.”

The Chair of Responsible Data Science will lead the development of a core area within the school, akin to a department. The school does not have departments per se but rather areas of concentration that foster interdisciplinarity and collaboration across the full spectrum of data science activities. Responsibilities include, recruiting faculty and students to build the field of responsible data science, maintaining an internationally recognized research program, contributing to the educational mission of the school as we expand an existing Masters in Data Science as well as develop PhD and undergraduate programs. The Chair of Responsible Data Science will become part of the leadership team of the school and play a vital role in shaping its future. This is not a position to execute on a vision, but rather to help define that vision such that ethical and responsible behavior are part of the fabric of the school, not an afterthought. The position carries with it an endowed appointment. Depending on the background and interests of the individual, joint or courtesy appointments with other schools, for example, Law, Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, or the College of Arts and Sciences, will be encouraged.

In summary, this position represents a unique opportunity to shape a school committed to pushing the envelope in higher education in a field of unprecedented growth and opportunity where the meaning of responsible data science, while recognized of great import, is yet to be fully defined. The expectation is that the successful candidate will not only be a leader in the field of responsible data science, but also help shape what that means. Recognizing that such entrepreneurship comes from different backgrounds we encourage both traditional and non-traditional scholars to apply.

Requirements:

Recognizing that the field of data science is in its formative stage, we are interested in applications from a variety of individuals from academia, government, the private sector and non-profits who are considered influential thought leaders at the interface of STEM and the humanities. Desirable prerequisites include:

• National and international recognition for research and teaching of the interplay between data and algorithms and the human consequences of their use
• A demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion
• A demonstrated successful experience, or strong promise, in implementing programs, policies and procedures around academic research and education at all levels
• A strong promise, to help envision and build a school of data science
• An ability to effectively manage direct reports and lead in a highly team-oriented and interdisciplinary environment
• Highly effective verbal and written skills; ability to engage in collaborative communication, facilitate discussions and bring groups to consensus
• A commitment to the development of student (undergraduate, graduate and life-long learners) focused services and/or programming

To be considered for the tenured Professor OR Associate professor appointment, candidates must have:

• A terminal degree (e.g., PhD, JD, MD) in an appropriate STEM, social science or humanities field.
• An academic career commensurate with an endowed tenured professorship.

To be considered for the Academic General Faculty Professor (Practice Track), candidates must have:

• Sustained excellence in integrating professional experience with the academic mission of the school, and possess recognition for regional, national, or international achievements in the relevant professional field(s). Ability to integrate professional experience into academic instruction and scholarly research.

TO APPLY:

Complete an application online and attach:

• CV
• Cover Letter
• Vision statement for the academic enterprise you propose to build
• Contact information for 3 references
• Statement of teaching
• Research statement
• Diversity statement
• Community Engagement