York University
Dean, Faculty of Science
York University recognizes that many Indigenous Nations have longstanding relationships with the territories upon which York University campuses are located that precede the establishment of York University. York University acknowledges its presence on the traditional territory of many Indigenous Nations. The area known as Tkaronto has been care taken by the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and the Huron-Wendat. It is now home to many First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities. We acknowledge the current treaty holders, the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. This territory is subject of the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, an agreement to peaceably share and care for the Great Lakes region.
Bold, ambitious, and global: these words capture the essence of York University. Canada’s 3rd largest university, York University offers scholars and students alike access to outstanding research and a top-quality teaching and learning environment committed to driving positive change. With three campuses in the Greater Toronto Area—one of the most vibrant and multicultural regions in the world—York University hosts a diverse and dynamic community of over 53,000 students and over 10,000 faculty and staff.
With a distinguished history and a reputation for innovation celebrated both nationally and internationally, this is an exciting time for York University. Over the past year alone, its Markham Campus was launched, a new stand-alone art gallery was opened, and the institution secured $9 million in development funding from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to establish a School of Medicine by 2028, with a focus on primary health care. In 2025-2026, consultations will begin on the new Academic Plan with the goal of furthering the University’s upward trajectory.
Building on this incredible momentum, York University is searching for an inspiring and visionary Dean for its Faculty of Science. Reporting to the Provost & Vice-President Academic, the Dean will act as the Faculty’s principal academic and administrative officer, driving excellence in research, teaching, and service, while working in partnership with the Faculty’s community and supporters to shape and innovate the Faculty’s strategic direction. The Dean will provide forward-looking leadership and budgetary oversight to the Faculty, guiding efforts to further enhance research impact, foster external collaborations, and support the recruitment and retention of exceptional students, faculty, and staff. The Dean will play a pivotal role in increasing York University’s world-wide ranking, representing and advocating for the Faculty, and ensuring its continued success and growth by championing its dedication to excellence.
Established in 1965, York University’s Faculty of Science has grown into a globally recognized hub of research, innovation, teaching, and broad impact. With more than 200 faculty members and nearly 30 undergraduate and graduate programs spanning five departments—Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics and Astronomy, and Science, Technology & Society—and one division, Natural Science, the Faculty is dedicated to academic distinction across its offerings. Science at York University emphasizes experiential education and innovative pedagogy, providing students with opportunities to work with outstanding faculty and engage in cutting-edge research using state-of-the-art facilities. The Faculty is home to approximately 84 postdoctoral fellows and visitors, 23 Canada Research Chairs, York Research Chairs, and Endowed Chairs, and enjoys 25 partnerships with international institutions for academic and research collaboration. Supported by diverse research funding sources, including NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, and CFI, the Faculty maintains strong connections with the broader community while driving impactful research and education.
Qualifications
The incoming Dean must have a deep and abiding commitment to excellence while advancing equity, inclusion and accessibility in all its forms and must believe in the importance of leading with curiosity and openness to new ideas. The following credentials and/or experiences reflect the characteristics of the candidates most suited to the role:
- a PhD in a relevant discipline, and a distinguished record in research, teaching, and service;
- demonstrated experience in enhancing a university’s global reputation and improving its rankings through strategic leadership, academic excellence, and international engagement;
- a record of success as a senior academic administrator, ideally with experience that includes optimizing finances and resources and visionary leadership with inclusiveness and openness to change;
- experience in strategic planning and the ability to develop and implement a forward-thinking vision that aligns with York University’s goals while driving excellence and innovation across academic units;
- a record of fostering cross-campus collaboration, all while strengthening relationships with external audiences such as professional organizations, government bodies, and industry partners;
- aptitude for fundraising and network building, along with the capacity to effectively sustain and expand existing partnerships; and
- an approach to leadership that includes agility, responsiveness, and investment in the experiences of faculty, staff, students, and the broader community.
How to Apply
The University welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including, but not limited to women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities (racialized), Indigenous Peoples and persons of any gender identity and sexual orientation. York University is committed to a positive, supportive, and inclusive environment. As this is a global search, all interested applicants are invited to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.
York University is partnering with BIPOC Executive Search to help further increase the diversity/plurality of the candidate pool. Applications can be sent to Jason Murray and/or Leena Sharma Seth by emailing jmurray@bipocsearch.com.
In accordance with the AODA Act, for applicants living with a disability, accommodation will be provided throughout the search process. Should accommodations be required, please make Jason Murray aware by emailing the email address above.
We thank everyone for their expression of interest—and are truly appreciative of the time individuals put into applying—but with the limitations of time only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
