Job Function
The Assistant Professor in Human Nutrition and Dietetics will be responsible for teaching a broad range of undergraduate and graduate courses within the discipline. The successful candidate is expected to develop and sustain a program of funded research that aligns with, or enhances, the research capacity of the College. The role also includes clinical supervision of students during hospital rotations, ensuring the integration of academic knowledge with practical experience. Additionally, the post holder will actively contribute to the service mission of the College, University, and broader community.
Responsibilities
Teaching
- Design and develop course content in areas related to Nutrition and Dietetics, ensuring alignment with the academic goals of the College’s programs.
- Contribute to the delivery and continuous development of relevant courses across the College’s teaching programs.
- Teach, supervise, and assess undergraduate and graduate students through lectures, seminars, clinical instruction, and examinations.
- Provide academic advising and mentorship to students, supporting their academic progress and career development.
- Promote innovative and effective teaching, learning, and assessment strategies, including the use of online platforms, practical laboratory work, and clinical applications.
- Regularly evaluate and improve course content, delivery methods, and assessment tools to ensure academic rigor and relevance.
- Develop and coordinate student placement schemes with health, nutrition, and dietetics organizations in Oman and the Gulf region, enhancing graduate employability.
- Contribute to the recruitment and retention of Omani, GCC, and international students to meet enrollment targets for the College’s Nutrition and Dietetics programs.
- Provide supervision, guidance, and support for students engaged in both theoretical learning and practical training, including clinical placements.
Research and Consultancy
- Pursue an internationally recognized program of research in alignment with the strategic research priorities of the College.
- Publish research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed international journals and other scholarly outlets of recognized academic standing.
- Actively seek and secure external research funding from national and international funding bodies, industry partners, and other relevant sources.
- Supervise and manage undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, fostering a culture of inquiry and academic excellence.
- Collaborate on research initiatives with colleagues within and beyond the College of Applied and Health Sciences, as appropriate.
- Establish and develop research collaborations and partnerships with external institutions, professional organizations, and industry stakeholders to secure funding and generate consultancy income.
- Contribute to public engagement with research, promoting awareness and understanding of nutrition and dietetics within the broader community.
Contribution to External Engagement
- Actively contribute to initiatives that enhance the regional, national, and international profile of the College and the University.
- Establish and maintain strategic relationships with key local, national, and international bodies, organizations, and industry partners to support the College’s academic, research, and community engagement goals.
Other related activities and functions
- Carry out specific roles and responsibilities within the College as may be reasonably assigned by the Dean or relevant academic leadership.
- Engage in continuous professional development and training programs that support personal growth and align with the strategic needs of the College.
- Participate in and, when required, coordinate College-wide activities and events, including staff seminars, Research Day, Open Days, and student recruitment initiatives.
- Support and contribute to the quality assurance and enhancement processes of the College and the University, such as annual course reviews, student feedback analysis, and academic audits.
- Undertake any other duties as may be reasonably assigned, commensurate with the nature and level of the position.
Experience
- Minimum four years of teaching experience in a recognized University.
- Registered Dietitian status would be preferable.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated research experience
Record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals
Skills
Mandatory Skills:
- Ability to teach, manage and assess undergraduate and graduate courses in related field.
- Ability to develop course and program materials
- Ability to work effectively as a team member
- Ability to provide tutorial and academic advice to undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Ability to attend University as required for scheduled teaching, relevant meetings and student support.
Desirable Skills:
- Ability to develop and maintain independent research program and publish in international and high impact factor journals.
- Ability to demonstrate leadership in outreach activities
- Advanced interpersonal verbal and written communications skills.
- Competence in IT skills
Ability to offer consultancy services to industry and organizations and generate external income
Qualification
Ph.D. in Human Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, Dietetics, or a closely related field from an accredited institution is required. A recognized Bachelor’s and master’s degree in human nutrition, Clinical Nutrition or Dietetics.