Chair, Department of Neurosciences

Exciting Opportunity

Our organization is conducting a nationwide search for a distinguished, board-certified neurologist to take on the role of Chair for the Department of Neurosciences at the Sanford School of Medicine (SSOM) in Sioux Falls. This department encompasses faculty specializing in both neurology and physical medicine and rehabilitation.

The SSOM employs a community-based faculty model, engaging clinician educators from the three primary hospital systems in South Dakota. Currently, the department boasts 46 neurologists and 17 physicians in physical medicine and rehabilitation, covering a broad spectrum of sub-specialties. These faculty members provide clinical services throughout the state, alongside an additional 30 adjunct faculty from diverse fields such as nursing, bioethics, pharmacy, psychology, and chaplaincy.

In 2023, the SSOM and Sanford Health launched an accredited four-year neurology residency program, welcoming its inaugural class of three residents. Training occurs at the Sanford USD Medical Center, a level-one trauma facility located on the SSOM campus, with further training opportunities available at the Sioux Falls VA Medical Center. This residency program is the sole one of its kind in South Dakota. Additionally, medical students can participate in a neurology clerkship and various electives.

Position Overview

The Chair of the Department of Neurosciences will be a highly regarded, board-certified academic neurologist with prior leadership experience in a medical school or a comparable setting. This individual should possess proven skills as a leader, educator, clinician, and researcher. While the position is based in Sioux Falls, the Chair will be expected to collaborate effectively with colleagues across the state, promoting the department's mission in both rural and urban settings.

Essential Qualifications:

• Medical Doctor, Doctor of Osteopathy, or an equivalent accredited medical degree

• Board certified and residency trained in neurology

• A minimum of eight years of clinical experience

• Recognized regionally and/or nationally for achievements in clinical, educational, or scholarly activities that justify an advanced academic appointment

• Ability to collaborate with academic and clinical faculty, medical students, and residents

• Dedication to providing holistic care to patients from diverse backgrounds

• Commitment to serving both rural and urban communities, as well as to inter-professional education

• Eligibility to obtain a medical license and hospital privileges in South Dakota

For further details regarding specific responsibilities and qualifications, as well as additional information about the position and the SSOM, please refer to the provided resources.

Application and Nomination Process

We invite interested candidates to engage in a confidential discussion about this opportunity prior to submitting their application materials. To ensure full consideration, nominations and applications should be submitted by the target date of June 25, 2026.

Application materials must include:

1. A letter of interest addressing the items outlined in the Position Overview and the Strategic Priorities detailed in the Leadership Profile.

2. A comprehensive curriculum vitae.

3. The names, phone numbers, and email addresses of five references, along with a description of your professional relationship with each. References will not be contacted without prior consent from the candidate.

Please ensure to include your personal email and mobile number. All candidate identities will remain confidential, except for those selected for finalist interviews.

Application and nomination materials should be submitted electronically through the designated portal. All nominations and expressions of interest should be directed to the appropriate team members.