The University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Arts and Sciences seeks its next Dean to lead the university's largest and most academically diverse college, serving as the intellectual cornerstone of Nebraska's flagship land-grant institution.
We invite you to learn more about Nebraska, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Dean position. Keep reading...
The University of
Nebraska-Lincoln
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a member of the Big Ten Conference and the Big Ten Academic Alliance, is classified within the Carnegie “R1: Doctoral Universities – Highest Research Activity” category and is a land-grant university.
The College of Arts
and Sciences
In the College of Arts and Sciences, passion drives discovery and creative activity. Research and teaching engage multiple disciplines and foster multiple paths for exploring the world. Faculty and students are encouraged to think deeply and broadly, integrating ideas from the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences in ways that lead to future innovation.
About Lincoln
Lincoln, Nebraska, is the capital city of the state and is known for its vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With a population of around 300,000, it’s the second-largest city in Nebraska and serves as a major economic and educational hub, anchored by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Search Committee
Richard Moberly
Committee Chair
Dean and Schmoker Professor of Law, College of Law
Courtney Hillebrecht, Professor and Chair, Political Science and Hitchcock Family Chair in Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs
Isabel Velázquez, Harold E. Spencer Professor, Modern Languages and Literatures
Ng'ang'a Wahu Muchiri, Associate Professor, English
David DiLillo, Willa Cather Professor, Psychology
Clay Cressler, Associate Professor, Biological Sciences
Kathy Castle, Professor of Practice, Communication Studies
Martin Centurion, Happold Professor, Physics and Astronomy
Shari Stenberg, Adele Hall Chair and Professor, English; Professor and Chair, Women's and Gender Studies
Carrie Heitman, Professor, Global Integrative Studies
Doug Pellatz, Senior Academic Advisor, College of Arts and Sciences
Andrea Peterson, Administrative Technician, College of Arts and Sciences
Owen Ferdig, Undergraduate Student, Sociology and Political Science
Zoe Zingler, Graduate Student, Chemistry
Lisa Davis, Alumni Advisory Council, College of Arts and Sciences
The Position
The Dean reports directly to the Executive Vice Chancellor and is the chief academic and administrative officer of the College of Arts and Sciences. The Dean has the responsibility for the strategic, programmatic, financial, fundraising, and management operations that support the mission and vision of the College of Arts and Sciences and its role within the university and across the state.
Home to a broad array of interdisciplinary programs across the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary fields, the college carries the university's largest research portfolio and plays a central role in advancing UNL's missions of teaching, research, service, and outreach. This leader will bring vision, collaboration, and strategic acumen to unite faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners around a shared future, strengthening the college's role as a driving force behind the university's aspirations.
The Candidate Profile
Candidates must hold an earned doctorate and a record of scholarly achievement sufficient to warrant appointment as a full professor in an academic department within the College. The next Dean must possess the experience, vision, and collaborative leadership skills necessary to strengthen the College's academic excellence, research enterprise, student success, and long-term sustainability.
How to Apply
A confidential review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position has been filled. For full consideration, individuals are encouraged to apply by January 4, 2027. Submit a cover letter and CV as two separate PDF files to ZRG Partners:
For Questions, Nominations or Recommendations:
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and collaborative workforce. UNL is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success where every person and every interaction matters. The University is proud to be one of Nebraska’s preferred and largest employers where individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential.
The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.
See equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination.