Job Description for the Principal Faculty Member Department of Physician Assistant Studies Elon position. Review job description, requirements, and qualifications. Apply or register interest for the position.

Principal Faculty Members

Elon University, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Principal Faculty Member in the Department of Physician Assistant (PA) Studies. Elon University is accepting applications from experienced physician assistants to join its growing Physician Assistant Program at an exciting moment in the Department’s development. This position is tenure-track eligible.

As the program plans to double its cohort size to meet the increasing demand for highly prepared PAs, Elon is seeking several new Principal Faculty members who want to contribute to a thriving and fully accredited program that is building on its strong foundation of success. Established in 2013, the program has continued to grow in reputation and impact, and this expansion reflects both the excellence of the current program and the University’s continued commitment to engaged, forward-thinking health sciences education.

These full-time, twelve-month faculty roles offer several possible start dates, with positions beginning in summer or fall of 2026 and the winter of 2027. Principal Faculty report directly to the Chair/Program Director and play a key part in shaping curriculum, teaching across the didactic and clinical phases, and supporting students as teacher-scholar-mentors. Elon’s physician assistant faculty are encouraged to engage in clinical practice or scholarship one day each week.

For educators who value meaningful student interaction, a supportive academic community, and the chance to contribute to a program that continues to grow in exciting ways, Elon University offers an exceptional professional home. The compensation offered will be commensurate with qualifications and include an excellent benefits package and generous retirement plan.

Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate excellence and innovation in teaching.
• Direct academic courses:
  • Coordinate the sequencing and delivery of content within assigned courses in the didactic and clinical year.
  • Coordinate student evaluation within assigned courses.
  • Serve as lecturer, lab instructor, small group facilitator and evaluator in didactic and clinical phase courses.
  • With the support of the program, proactively address the evolving needs of the program and its students.
• Participate in other departmental responsibilities:
  • Proctoring exams, grading OSCEs, facilitating case-based simulation activities, etc.
  • Serve as Master’s Project advisor.
  • Advise and provide academic counseling for students in academic and clinical phases, including conducting clinical site visits.
  • Engage in admissions activities, including, but not limited to reviewing candidate applications, interviewing candidates, and selecting the cohort.
• Assist with program continuous self-assessment and improvement, including the ongoing evolution of the program and continuance of accreditation by ARC-PA.
• Serve on departmental, School of Health Science, and University committees as elected or appointed.
• Maintain a record of ongoing scholarly activity and faculty development.
• Timely completion of assigned tasks.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Director.

Qualifications:

• Terminal degree in PA studies or other applicable healthcare discipline.
• Current certification by the NCCPA or appropriate certifying board.
• Eligibility for North Carolina state licensure as appropriate.
• Minimum of 3 years of clinical experience.
• Teaching experience strongly preferred.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency with educational and office technology (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).

About Elon University:

Elon University is a selective, mid-sized private university renowned nationally as a model for engaged and experiential learning. Located in central North Carolina, the University is recognized as one of the nation's most beautiful collegiate environments. Students work closely with faculty who are teacher-scholar-mentors. The curriculum is grounded in the traditional liberal arts and sciences and complemented by nationally accredited professional and graduate programs.

With a focus on teaching and student success, Elon was recently honored to be ranked among the top universities in the nation by US News & World Report, receiving a #1 ranking for undergraduate teaching and a #13 ranking for "most innovative" University.

The University is comprised of six schools that serve a selective student body of over 6,000. Elon is one of only seven private universities in the country with accredited schools of business, communications, education, law, and health sciences, plus a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, the nation's oldest and most prestigious academic honor society.

About the School of Health Sciences:

The School of Health Sciences was established in 2011 and includes graduate programs in Physical Therapy and Physician Assistant Studies in addition to the four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

The School of Health Sciences is located in the Francis Center, a state-of-the-art teaching and research facility near the main campus. Faculty, staff, and students in all programs collaborate on innovative research initiatives in interdisciplinary laboratories. The Interprofessional Simulation Center is a hub of experiential learning, allowing students to hone their skills in providing individualized care at the bedside, in the clinic, in the home, and in the community.

About the Department of Physician Assistant Studies:

The Department of Physician Assistant Studies, offered through the School of Health Sciences, prepares graduates to think critically and act skillfully to meet expanding health care needs in local and global communities. Students are immersed in a curriculum structured around active learning strategies through collaborative work with faculty, scholars and practitioners in the field. The 24-month program prepares graduates to employ the most current knowledge to care for patients’ physical, emotional and spiritual needs and advance health care equity. It is an exciting time within the department as the University looks to expand its faculty.

About the Community:

Elon, North Carolina, exudes a unique charm that captivates both residents and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of the state, this delightful town of about 11,000 residents is a perfect blend of small-town warmth and progressive energy. With its tree-lined streets, historic downtown area, and welcoming community, Elon is renowned for its excellent schools, fostering a culture of learning and growth. Its vibrant arts scene, local boutiques, and diverse dining options contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences. Nature enthusiasts find solace in the nearby parks, walking trails, and nature reserves, and community events bring residents together throughout the year. Elon is truly a hidden gem of North Carolina.

Elon’s location also offers the perfect balance between small-town charm and access to larger metropolitan areas. The town is conveniently situated near Greensboro, Raleigh, and Durham, making it easy to enjoy the cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities these cities offer. Charlotte, about 100 miles away, is a major draw with its thriving financial sector, professional sports teams, world-class dining, and vibrant arts and entertainment scene. This central location makes Elon an ideal spot for both work and leisure.

Application and Nomination Process:

All correspondence relating to the position of Principal Faculty Member at Elon University should be directed in confidence to the University’s executive search consultant:

Dr. Lea Johnson, Assistant Vice President

Scott Healy & Associates

lea@scotthealy.com

A complete application should include the following:

1. Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;
2. Updated CV;
3. Contact information for three (3) professional references with title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)

Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis.  The search will remain open until the positions are filled.

Elon University is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse faculty, staff and student body and welcomes all applicants.