Deputy Dean, School of Mathematics and Physics

ABOUT XJTLU

In 2006 Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) was created by the University of Liverpool and Xi’an Jiaotong University – a top ten university in China. Offering a unique international education experience, XJTLU brings together excellent research practice and expertise from both institutions and gives students the skills and knowledge they need to secure careers in a global marketplace. XJTLU now has over 25,000 enrolled students in both Suzhou and Liverpool in the UK, with plans to grow to about 28,000 students by 2025. There are currently about 2,000 staff, among which about 1,000 academic staff, with an almost even split between citizens of the People’s Republic of China and international passport holders. XJTLU offers our undergraduates and postgraduates over 100 programmes with a diverse spectrum of courses.

With a focus on innovative learning and teaching, and research, XJTLU draws on the strengths of its parent universities, and plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to China for UK and other institutional partners. At same time, XJTLU is exploring future education by blending the educational theory, best practice and culture from west and east.

For detailed information about the university, please visit www.xjtlu.edu.cn.

ABOUT SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND PHYSICS

The School of Mathematics and Physics is a research-driven academic unit comprising over 100 faculty members and a diverse student body with more than 2,500 undergraduate students in mathematics, 250+ master’s students, and 70+ Ph.D. students. The School is organized into five departments: Foundational Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics, Physics, and Financial and Actuarial Mathematics. It currently offers a broad range of degree programs, including four undergraduate programs, four master’s programs, and one Ph.D. program.

Our mission is to advance world-class research and develop innovative solutions to complex, real-world challenges. The School maintains a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research and active collaboration with industry. Research activities span a wide range of areas in pure and applied mathematics, probability and statistics, and theoretical physics, with practical applications across engineering, business, and health sectors.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The School of Mathematics and Physics at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) invites applications for the position of Deputy Dean. The Deputy Dean will assist the School’s Dean in providing leadership and strategic direction for the School’s academic, research, and operational activities. This is a senior academic leadership position, requiring a dynamic individual who will support the Dean in advancing the School’s mission of world-class research and innovative solutions to real-world challenges, while maintaining strong ties with both academic and industry partners.

The Deputy Dean is a key member of the senior management team in the School of Mathematics and Physics, working alongside the Dean, Associate Dean for Research, Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching, and five department heads. They oversee executive functions such as policy development, strategic planning, and the coordination of school operations with administrative staff.

The Deputy Dean is pivotal in ensuring the effective management of academic and professional activities, supporting the Dean in the line management of department heads, and may deputize for the Dean in all school operations, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leadership Support
  • Assist the Dean in providing leadership and oversight to the School, including support in chairing the School’s Senior Management Team committee (SSMT) when required.
  • Support the Dean in their full membership of the HoD Advisory Group, Dean's Advisory Group, and Academic Board.
  • Aid the Dean in leading the School's strategic planning process, ensuring alignment with the university's rolling three-year plans.
  • Help ensure that the School's teaching, research, and professional engagement activities are in line with the School's mission, vision, and international accreditation standards.
  • Support the Dean in developing the School’s external engagement strategies and representing the School in both domestic and international forums.
  • Assist the Dean in fostering synergistic collaboration between the School and the rest of the University.
• Administrative Support
  • Assist in overseeing all activities within the School, including the administration of departments and functional activities.
  • Support the Dean in carrying out specific administrative tasks assigned by the university, such as committee service, chairing review panels, and other duties.
  • Help the Dean in their direct responsibilities within the School, such as strategic and annual planning, budget development, financial approvals, and ensuring quality and standards are upheld.
• Management Support
  • Assist the Dean in managing all academic and professional support staff through their respective reporting lines.
  • Support the Dean in ensuring that staff carry out their duties professionally and effectively, providing direction and feedback.
  • Assist the Dean in the in-line supervision and management of some individual staff members.
  • Help the Dean with the effective management of the Annual Performance Management system at the School level.
• Key Relationships Support
  • Work closely with the Dean in reporting to the VP Academic Affairs and support the Dean in their interactions with other key university figures.
  • Assist the Dean in working with Associate Vice-Presidents, the Director of the Centre for Academic Affairs, and Heads of Departments (HoDs) to develop research synergies and administrative services.
  • Support the Dean in their collaboration with other Deans and HoDs across the University, particularly through the Academic Management Group and the Academic Leadership Group.
  • Help the Dean maintain regular meetings with direct reports, all staff in the School, and act as a leader and mentor to School staff.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCES

• A distinguished academic record in mathematics, physics, or a related field, with a Ph.D. or equivalent qualification.
• A strong track record of research excellence and leadership, ideally within a higher education context.
• Proven experience in academic management, with a demonstrated ability to lead and inspire academic staff and students.
• In-depth understanding of academic program development and a commitment to excellence in teaching and research.
• Experience in fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration, with strong connections to both academia and industry.
• A deep commitment to improving the student experience and enhancing the quality of education.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Visionary leadership with the ability to inspire and motivate faculty, staff, and students.
• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills, with the ability to respond effectively to evolving challenges and opportunities.
• Collaborative and approachable, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and innovative academic community.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a complex environment.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

• Clear career development path with annual review.
• Professional development trainings are provided.

CITIZENSHIP AND VISA REGULATIONS

Employment at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University is regulated by Chinese Labour Laws, and must comply with the regulations of the provincial government. These regulations stipulate who is eligible for legal employment with regard to obtaining work permits and visas. Please be advised candidates over 65 may be not eligible for a work visa in the P.R. China.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

SALARY: Competitive salary in the global market.

BENEFITS:

• Allowance: XJTLU provides various monthly, annual, and one-off allowances such as:
  • Housing allowance
  • Travel allowance
  • Kids’ education allowance
  • Relocation allowance
  • Etc.
• Commercial insurance: International insurance plans customized for XJTLU staff and family members. (Details refer to the University Policy)
• Paid holidays:
  • Statutory Holidays (11 days)
  • Annual Leave (36 days, including University closing days)
  • Family Matters Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Marriage Leave
  • Paternity Leave
  • Parental Leave
  • Etc.
• Working visa and residence permit in China: XJTLU sponsors working visa and residence permit in China for the staff.

RESEARCH FUNDING SUPPORT

The university provides every new faculty member with a Research Development Fund to encourage them to initiate research projects, and a Research Engagement Fund to support their continuous research activities.

The university will also support all faculty members to apply for national, provincial, and city level programs. These programs aim to support excellent scientists, both Chinese and non-Chinese citizens, to work and carry out research in China.

Some of the programs are listed below. Successful applications are based on the applicant’s educational background, academic/research field, research achievements, working experience, etc. The university will provide full support on the applications.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your application through our university website. Applications must be submitted in a single PDF file that includes 3 parts in the order of:

• A cover letter which also specifies your leadership experience and philosophy (max. 2 pages).
• A current CV, including date of birth, country of citizenship, and highest degree level.
• Three Academic References Letters.

For specific enquiries relating to the position, please email the Dean of the School, Prof. Jintai Ding, at [email protected]. Informal enquiries may be addressed to HR at [email protected].