Description

At the University of Pikeville and Tanner College of Dental Medicine (TCDM), innovation and excellence drive our approach to preparing the next generation of health professionals. The University of Pikeville seeks a dynamic and visionary leader for the position of Associate Dean of Research at the Tanner College of Dental Medicine (TCDM). This key leadership role advances the college's research mission with a particular emphasis on public health, the oral-systemic connection, and innovative approaches to improving oral health outcomes. The successful candidate will foster a collaborative research environment, lead faculty and student research initiatives, and enhance the college's reputation for excellence in dental public health and translational research.  

A critical aspect of this role includes the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), salivary diagnostics, and other emerging technologies into research and clinical applications, ensuring TCDM is at the forefront of discovery and innovation. The Associate Dean of Research will work in close collaboration with the Dean of TCDM, the Leadership Team, and the Center for Research and Education in Technology (CRET) personnel to advance a research culture grounded in innovation, impact, and excellence.

Responsibilities: 

Leadership and Vision

• Provide strategic direction for the TCDM’s research mission by advancing initiatives in public health, oral-systemic health, artificial intelligence (AI), and salivary diagnostics.
• Secure external funding, promote innovation, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration across the university and with the Center for Research and Education in Technology (CRET).

Research Administration

• Oversee research operations to ensure compliance with ethical and regulatory standards while effectively managing budgets and resources.
• Coordinate with institutional offices to support faculty in grant development, project execution, and dissemination of impactful findings.
• Alignment with the CRET Innovation Center will be critical to advancing institutional and translational research priorities.

Faculty and Student Development

• Mentor faculty and guide students in developing strong research agendas, particularly in emerging areas such as AI-driven discovery, oral-systemic health, and salivary diagnostics.
• Cultivate research skills and promote innovation that strengthens the scholarly reputation of TCDM through workshops, seminars, and training programs.

Community and Public Health Engagement

• Partner with regional, national, and international organizations, to extend the impact of the college’s research.
• Advance community-based initiatives in Central Appalachia and beyond.
• Represent the Tanner College of Dental Medicine in academic and professional forums.
• Highlight the college’s contributions to innovation and excellence, while promoting the improvement of public health outcomes.

Requirements:

• DMD or DDS degree from a CODA-accredited institution or equivalent and/or Ph.D. with research experience.
• Possess or be eligible to obtain a license to practice dentistry in Kentucky or faculty limited licensure.
• Additional qualifications in public health (e.g., MPH) are highly desirable.

The University of Pikeville offers a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. UPIKE offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, telemedicine, long term disability, tuition waivers, a 403(b)-retirement plan, and HSA, FSA, & dependent care accounts. UPIKE also offers a generous holiday schedule and paid leave program.

Important Notes: Resume and other application materials will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. Please, specifically address the qualifications, competencies and desired qualifications in your resume and application materials.

The University of Pikeville is committed to providing a safe and productive learning, living and working community. To achieve this goal, we conduct background investigations for all final applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial and/or motor vehicle history.

The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.

For more information about the University of Pikeville, please visit http://www.upike.edu. In addition to the application, interested applicants are requested to attach to their application a letter of interest, current resume, and the contact information for three to five professional references.