Chair, Department Of Ophthalmology And Visual Sciences (DOVS)
- Pakistan
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Recognized qualification in Ophthalmology (FCPS, FRCS, FRCOphth, American Board, or equivalent);
- Eligible for appointment as Associate or Full Professor at AKU;
- Minimum 5 - 7 years of leadership experience in an academic medical setting;
- Proven excellence in clinical care, teaching, curriculum innovation, and research;
- Strong record of peer-reviewed publications and grant acquisition;
- National/international recognition in ophthalmology;
- Demonstrated commitment to mentoring and faculty development;
- Strategic vision to elevate the department's regional and global reputation;
- Ability to collaborate effectively and empower high performance teamwork;
- Experience with CPSP-accredited programme administration and community-based health initiatives;
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and health systems strengthening in LMICs.
at AKU is a growing academic and clinical hub, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and allied health training, including a newly launched vitreoretinal fellowship. The department delivers comprehensive subspecialty eye care across AKU's main campus and regional centres.Research is a strategic imperative. DOVS leads initiatives in stem cell science, clinical trials, and community-based health systems. Collaborations with AKU's Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Clinical Trials Unit drive innovation in therapies for retinal diseases, glaucoma, and diabetic eye conditions. A number of flagship philanthropic initiatives anchor sustainability, enabling global partnerships, attracting top-tier talent, and advancing high-impact research that bridges science and service.About The Role
AKU invites applications for Chair of DOVS-a strategic leadership role at the intersection of subspecialty care, translational research, and academic excellence. The Chair will lead the department's academic, clinical, and research missions, working closely with faculty, hospital leadership, and university governance.Reporting to the Dean, Medical College and the Chief Executive Officer, Health Services Pakistan supported by Vice Chairs, Managers, and relevant stakeholders. The Chair will will provide visionary leadership to advance clinical services, academic programs, and research initiatives, in alignment with AKU's guiding principles of IQRA (Impact, Quality, Access and Relevance) and the University's Strategic Plan (2024-2028). The Chair will also play a key role in enhancing the department's research portfolio and philanthropic engagement, ensuring that DOVS remains at the forefront of innovation and service.The department continues to expand its reach through community-based initiatives and partnerships with regional centres such as the Aga Khan Medical Centre in Gilgit. Faculty members are nationally and in some cases internationally recognized for their contributions to clinical care, education, and research.Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement strategic plans to advance clinical services, academic programs, and research initiatives in alignment with AKU's mission and institutional goals;
- Ensure delivery of high-quality, patient-centred care across all ophthalmic subspecialties, including retina, glaucoma, cornea, paediatric ophthalmology, oculoplastics, and neuro-ophthalmology;
- Optimize clinical operations and resource utilization, ensuring compliance with JCIA/ISO standards and enhancing patient throughput and service quality;
- Lead curriculum innovation and academic oversight across undergraduate, postgraduate, fellowship, and allied health training programs;
- Promote academic excellence through structured teaching activities, including rounds, journal clubs, seminars, and interprofessional education;
- Advance research excellence in basic science, clinical trials, and community-based health systems, fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation;
- Secure extramural funding and support scholarly output, including high-impact publications and collaborative research initiatives;
- Recruit, mentor, and evaluate faculty, aligning appointments and promotions with departmental goals and supporting career development.;
- Represent the department in university governance, national forums, and international academic partnerships to enhance institutional visibility and collaboration;
- Collaborate with the Advancement Office on donor stewardship and fundraising, while fostering an inclusive and equitable departmental culture.