Director, Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSW) invites an exceptional leader and visionary scientist to serve as Director of the Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care (CDRC) within the Department of Psychiatry. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of the nation’s leading centers dedicated to transforming how we understand, prevent, and treat depression. Founded in 2015 with a bold mission to envision a world free from the burden of depression, the CDRC has already made a remarkable impact.

The Center has pioneered advances in novel diagnostics, including brain- and blood-based approaches, and has driven innovation in treatments for depression and suicide. Beyond discovery, the CDRC has translated science into action, building evidence-based programs that reach adolescents and communities, fostering resilience, and opening critical conversations around mental health. Its expanding network of research and community partnerships reflects a deep commitment to meeting people where they are and advancing mental well-being across Texas and beyond.

The Director will lead this momentum into its next era by guiding a dynamic, interdisciplinary research enterprise that bridges science, clinical care, and community impact. With responsibility for strategy, operations, partnerships, and a growing external funding portfolio, the Director will work alongside distinguished faculty and institutional leaders to amplify the Center’s national and global influence while ensuring long-term sustainability.

The Director for CDRC provides visionary, strategic, and operational leadership for a multidisciplinary center committed to advancing research, education, and community impact. The Director is responsible for defining and executing the center’s long-term vision, ensuring excellence across all programs, fostering collaboration within and beyond the institution, and securing the resources necessary to sustain and expand the center’s mission.

UT Southwestern offers an extraordinary environment for this work. As one of the nation’s premier academic medical centers, it is defined by a culture of excellence in science, clinical care, and education. Its faculty includes members of the National Academy of Sciences and Medicine, Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigators, and Nobel laureates; UTSW is an ecosystem where innovation thrives and collaboration drives breakthroughs.

Psychiatry services extend across a diverse network of hospitals, community settings, and outreach programs, providing a uniquely rich platform for translational impact. The ideal candidate is an internationally recognized clinical or translational researcher with a strong record of successful research funding, mentorship, collaborative leadership style, and the vision to guide complex, multidisciplinary programs. Candidates should hold an MD, DO (or equivalent), or PhD, with eligibility for appointment at the full professor level.

This role offers more than leadership, it offers the chance to redefine what is possible in mental health, to build bridges between discovery and care, and to leave a lasting imprint on the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Applications should include 1) a curriculum vitae and 2) a letter of interest that addresses the responsibilities and requirements described above, as well as the applicant’s motivation to apply.

To ensure full consideration, inquiries, nominations, and applications should be submitted electronically, in confidence, to: amber.gornik@kornferry.com. UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.

This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information. Appointment rank will be commensurate with academic accomplishment and experience. Consideration may be given to applicants seeking less than a full-time schedule.

To learn more about the benefits UT Southwestern offers, visit https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/employees/hr-resources/ BenefitsUT Southwestern is proud to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. Our benefits are designed to support your overall wellbeing, and include:PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage100% coverage for preventive healthcare – no copayPaid Time Off, available day oneRetirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS)Paid Parental Leave BenefitWellness programsTuition ReimbursementPublic Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified EmployerLearn more about these and other UTSW employee benefits!