The Lewis & Leona Hughes Endowed Chair in Nursing Science

The USF Health College of Nursing is one of 14 colleges at the University of South Florida and one of four that make up USF Health. As a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, USF is designated by the Carnegie Foundation as both a Research 1 and a Community-Engaged institution, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education, research, and service. Nationally recognized as a leader in nursing education and research, the College of Nursing serves more than 2,000 undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students each year. For the fourth consecutive year, our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program has been ranked No. 1 among Florida’s public universities by U.S. News & World Report—rising to No. 23 in the nation in 2025. As an integral part of USF Health, the College of Nursing is guided by a mission grounded in excellence, innovation, and respect. We are dedicated to educating future nurses, advancing nursing science, and applying evidence-based practice to improve health outcomes and community well-being. 

The University of South Florida College of Nursing is seeking an outstanding nurse scientist for the position of the Lewis and Leona Hughes Endowed Chair in Nursing Science. The Endowed Chair is a full-time, tenured position, expected to contribute to the research, teaching, and service missions of the college.

Maintain a high level of external grant-supported research, disseminate research findings, and promote the translation of research findings into practice; work closely with practice colleagues at Sarasota Memorial Health Care System mentoring clinical scientists. 

The candidate demonstrates a strong track record of excellence in nursing practice, patient care, and organizational performance that can significantly enhance Sarasota Memorial Health Care System’s designation of Magnet status. Mentor current and future nurse researchers, emerging nurse scientists, and practice scholars. Participate and lead inter-professional research workshops and conferences. Collaborate with colleagues in nursing, across the university, and doctoral students. Utilize the funds associated with the award; ensure fiscal accountability for the funds consistent with the agreement and university policy; and provide an annual performance and stewardship report.

Minimum:

• Doctoral degree from an accredited institution or the highest degree appropriate in the field of specialization with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Normally will have produced creative work, professional writing or research in refereed and other professional journals. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Associate Professor. 

Additional Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be eligible for licensure is a Registered Nurse (RN) in the State of Florida.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated evidence of current federal research funding.
• Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing.
• Experience with T32 training programs.