Association for Biology Laboratory Education

Job Posting

Assistant Professor of Biology

The University of the South

The Biology Department at The University of the South seeks a Ph.D.-trained biologist to serve as a tenure-track assistant professor starting in August 2024. With 1700 undergraduate students, the  University of the South (also known as ‘Sewanee’) values small interactive classes and close student-faculty mentoring and research. The Biology Department is a vibrant intellectual environment consisting of 11 research-active faculty with broad interests. We offer a comprehensive biology curriculum with concentrations in Ecology and Biodiversity, Molecular Biology and Genetics, and Integrative Biology. 

Position Description 

The position carries a teaching load of 5 courses per year with both lecture and lab sections counting toward that total. The successful applicant will develop a research program that provides opportunities for undergraduate involvement and will serve the university by advising students, participating in departmental work, and serving on college and university committees. Professional development opportunities include funds for professional travel, eligibility for internal grant funding, access to a broad range of programming in our Center for Teaching, and a sponsored research office.

Attributes of a Successful Candidate 

A doctoral degree in biology, broadly defined, is required and we are particularly interested in candidates that can teach courses in animal physiology and anatomy. Candidates should have a research plan that is conducive to an undergraduate-only college and that has the potential to include undergraduate students. Candidates should be enthusiastic about teaching small interactive classes and mentoring research students. Preference will be given to candidates with prior experience in teaching and/or mentorship. The successful applicant will be able to teach courses in vertebrate anatomy and physiology as well as upper-level courses in their area of expertise. Preference will be given to candidates who are also able to teach introductory molecular biology courses. We particularly welcome faculty with knowledge, skills, or diverse life experiences that contribute to an inclusive and welcoming environment in our department and the institution. Evidence that the candidate can advance institutional efforts to better meet the needs of students who identify as coming from underrepresented groups is highly valued.

Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter that addresses the applicant’s teaching philosophy, their research program and how it might fit at an undergraduate only institution, and how their past or potential contributions in teaching, research, and/or service demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The cover letter should also include   contact information for individuals who may be asked by the search committee to provide letters of recommendation. Applicants selected for the second round of consideration will be asked to provide additional materials, including a teaching statement and a research plan, and the review committee may request letters of recommendation.

Review of applications will begin on November 20, 2023. Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled.

Review of applications to begin on 11/20/2023


Return to all job opportunities