The Center for Practical Bioethics is a Kansas City-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to raise and respond to ethical issues in health and healthcare, focusing on the practical application of bioethics to improve lives and communities. As one of the few organizations in the U.S. dedicated to applied bioethics, the Center plays a vital role in facilitating and amplifying the work of others through principled recommendations and technical assistance.

The Center seeks a visionary leader to serve as the John B. Francis Chair in Bioethics. Reporting to the President and CEO, this prestigious role offers the opportunity to lead cutting-edge research, translate ethical discoveries into real-world solutions, and shape the future of bioethics. The Center seeks a leader committed to the practical application of ethics to the biological and population sciences, medicine, healthcare and related fields as well as public policy and have a specialized knowledge in one of the Center’s strategic domains. In partnership with Center’s leadership team, the John B. Francis Chair in Bioethics will have the unique opportunity to drive discovery that leads to impactful interventions and programs that leave an enduring legacy on both national and global scales.

This role is ideal for a highly accomplished bioethicist with a passion for bridging the gap between research and real-world application. As the John B. Francis Chair in Bioethics, you will help shape the strategic direction of the Center and drive programs that improve health and healthcare and foster ethical decision-making. This opportunity is to provide the visionary leadership necessary to cultivate and maintain a robust research agenda paired with an opportunity to translate findings, discoveries, and scientific recommendations into real-world practice and programming that contributes to the financial sustainability of the organization.

This part-time role offers the flexibility to be based anywhere in the U.S. The Center intends to secure the John B. Francis Chair for a 5-year term, including annual review, and the opportunity for a highly successful Chair to renew for an additional 5-year term. However, the successful candidate may negotiate terms of the appointment to arrive at a mutually satisfactory arrangement.

Qualifications

• Conduct and publish high-impact bioethics research, contributing to national and international discourse.
• Lead the development of practical bioethics programs and interventions that positively impact communities, patients, and healthcare systems.
• Serve as a national thought leader, engaging with policymakers, academics, and practitioners to promote ethical decision-making across healthcare and emerging technologies.
• Collaborate with Center leadership to align bioethics research with the strategic priorities of the Center.
• Deliver high-quality research-informed lectures, seminars, tutorials, classes, demonstrations and workshops.
• Mentor and develop staff, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Participate in conference proceedings that are subject to peer review and published through houses of high national and international reputation.

Responsibilities

• PhD, MD, DO, JD, or relevant terminal degree in bioethics or a related field.
• A distinguished career in bioethics, with at least 10 years of experience in research, teaching, and policy engagement and reputation for national thought leadership in bioethics.
• Possess a portfolio of research and discovery with a high likelihood of translation to enduring bioethics programming.
• Proven leadership skills, with experience in collaborative, interdisciplinary work.
• A strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and successful research funding.
• Expertise in one or more of the Center’s strategic domains: clinical and organizational healthcare ethics, care goal conversations, or ethical AI and advanced technologies.
• Previous success in translating research into practical, sustainable programming that drives community impact.
• Reputation for integrity and a demonstrated commitment to the vision, mission, and values of the Center.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for opportunities unless they believe they check all the boxes in a description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job. If you think you have the skills, we encourage you to apply, even if you do not meet every one of the listed qualifications.

OMNI is honored to be retained in this search. We appreciate your referrals to professionals who may have an interest in this outstanding opportunity. Formal interest accepted through the OMNI Executive Career Portal. Please direct all inquiries to:

OMNI Human Resource Solutions

Michelle Anderson, Vice President, Executive Search – manderson@omnihrm.com

OMNI and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers and seek diversity in candidates for employment. EEO Employer W/M/Vet/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity