Associate Professor - International Relations & Diplomacy (IRD) at Riara University

POSITION FUNCTION

The primary function of this role is the delivery and development of cutting-edge learning, teaching, andscholarship in the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy at Riara University. The employ- ee/s, will be pivotal in sustaining the growth strategy of the School and ensuring the quality of learning and assessment of International Relations and Diplomacy practice.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Teaching is central to the role of Academic Staff and they are expected to:

• Oversee the growth of the School preferably in the area of Diplomacy, International Law, and Quan- titative aspects of International Relations;
• Offer leadership in developing demand-driven course materials and supervision of teaching and assessment of international relations and diplomacy courses;
• Work closely with the Head of the Department, and team members to develop and enhance the delivery of curriculum through blended learning (face-to-face and online learning platforms);
• Be involved in teaching both undergraduate and post graduate students;
• Deliver instructor-led sessions, monitor student progress during training, and provide support andadvice to enable the students to gain competence in the units taught;
• Assist the School in identifying, developing, and rolling out marketing strategies and activities;
• Actively monitor and respond to the department’s curriculum development initiatives at interna- tional, regional, and local levels.

Research and scholarships:

• Harness his/her capacity and that of other staff members for conducting research aimed at produc- ing cutting-edge publications in peer-reviewed journals, book chapters, and books;
• Forge partnerships with universities and other relevant stakeholders to design, and deliver on re- gional and global scholarly conferences;
• Provide guidance and assistance to students and staff in developing their capacity for teaching and research;
• Assist in identifying research and scholarship opportunities and actively participate in the develop- ment of proposals, and funding concept notes;
• Develop partnerships for securing social and monetary resources to conduct research in his/her field of specialization;
• Guide and supervise both undergraduate and postgraduate students in project papers and research;
• Foster the culture of research within the school and expose other staff in the department to useful networks inside and outside the university.

Community Service:

• Contribute to mentorship and supervision of students undergoing internship and community ser- vice;
• Identify opportunities for students to participate, including student’ led workshops, seminars, and competitions;
• Assist in organizing and guiding students to participate in community service, and similar platforms that enhance student’s life-long learning and professional development;
• Contribute to the University’s vision by forging close working relationship with colleagues and staff at large.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD in International Relations, or subjects related to global studies, political science, and peace and conflict studies or as appropriate to the discipline of international relations and diplomacy.
• Should be able to meet the requirements for the position applied for as per the Harmonized Criteria and Guidelines for Appointment and Promotion of Academic Staff in Universities in Kenya, which can be found on the Commission for University Education’s Website
• Creative and innovative team player.
• A confident individual with proven ability to develop and manage public and private sector linkages and partnerships.
• Expert knowledge in their field as well as relevant experience and the ability to teach, using a vari- ety of student-based learning approaches, on a range of academic and professional programs.
• Ability to plan and organize public lectures, workshops, and conferences.
• A team player with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Action-oriented person with excellent writing and editorial skills as well as a proven track record of effective administration and research experience.