Program Director - Master of Science in Biomedical Science (M.S.)

The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) invites applications for an innovative and visionary Program Director to lead the launch of the new Master of Science (M.S.) in Biomedical Science program. Housed within the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM), this 12-month, full-time position offers an exceptional opportunity to shape a graduate program that will prepare students for success in health professions, biomedical research, and industry. The Program Director will design and implement a dynamic, flexible, and accessible online curriculum that integrates hands-on learning, personalized mentorship, and career readiness. Through strategic vision, creativity, and  collaboration, the Director will build a program that reflects UPIKE’s mission of access, affordability, and academic excellence. 

Responsibilities:

• Lead the curricular design, approval process, accreditation/standards alignment, scheduling, and launch of the M.S. in Biomedical Science program.


• Demonstrate a strong understanding of effective online teaching practices and apply them to the design, delivery, and continuous improvement of courses and the overall program.


• Collaborate with Admissions, Marketing, and Advancement to develop targeted recruitment strategies including international students, underrepresented groups, rural Appalachia) and support student success/retention.


• Hire, mentor, and evaluate program faculty.


• Coordinate adjuncts and partnerships; oversee teaching quality, research mentorship, and experiential learning.


• Teach up to three (3) courses per academic year within the Biomedical Science program.


• Serve on various campus committees and/or committees within the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM).


• Build laboratory/research partnerships (internal and external), incorporate hands-on research, capstone/thesis options, and industry/clinical partnerships.


• Develop and manage program budget, staffing plans, equipment/laboratory resources, and grant/contract funding opportunities.


• Establish program learning outcomes, assessment plan, accreditation readiness, program review cycles, and data tracking (enrollment, retention, placement, graduate outcomes).


• Work with Advancement to identify philanthropic support, partnerships with health systems, biotech, public health agencies; promote the program’s brand and unique value (rural/regional impact, access, first-gen students).


• Ensure compliance with university policies, graduate school standards, and external accreditation/regulatory requirements; prepare reports and documentation as required.


• Serve as primary academic advisor for program students, support professional development, career pathways (e.g., health professions, research, industry), and foster student engagement and community.

Education/Experience: 

• An earned terminal degree (Ph.D., M.D., D.O., or equivalent).


• A minimum of 18-graduate hours in a biomedical science or related field.


• Experience in graduate program administration or leadership, preferably in higher education.


• Experience in teaching and developing online courses.


• Demonstrated success in curriculum development, student recruitment/retention, and faculty oversight.


• Experience securing research/educational grants or philanthropic gifts.


• Demonstrated engagement with industry/clinical partnerships or biomedical research networks.


• Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.


• Commitment to the mission of UPIKE.

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.