Assistant Professor of Biology

The Department of Biology at the University of North Carolina Asheville, the UNC system's designated public liberal arts institution, is seeking qualified applicants with expertise in developmental biology, particularly those who use genetic and/or molecular tools in model organisms (note that UNCA does not have the facilities to house mammalian or avian colonies on site) for a full-time, tenure-track assistant professor position that will begin in the fall semester of 2023. The person selected for this position must have earned a Ph.D. in Biology or an appropriate discipline prior to July 1, 2023 and will be expected to teach 12 contact hours per semester; establish a research program that involves undergraduates; and engage in service to the institution, the community and the profession. Teaching duties will include contributions to our introductory core in cellular and molecular biology and experimental design courses, upper-level developmental biology, and additional upper-level courses within the candidate's area of expertise. Individuals with postdoctoral experience, a passion for undergraduate teaching, and experience at an institution focused on the liberal arts are strongly encouraged to apply.
UNC Asheville has been a national leader in undergraduate research for almost 30 years, and over 60% of our students graduate each year having been involved in this important learning experience. The University fully embraces the idea of mentored undergraduate research being one of the highest forms of teaching, and the institution values success in this facet of a faculty member's work. Therefore, the successful candidate for this position must be able to articulate a clear vision for a sustainable, highly productive, and externally funded undergraduate research program. Moreover, the Department is interested in expanding its opportunities for undergraduate research to include answering evolutionary or ecological questions using modern analytical approaches such as bioinformatics, molecular systematics, developmental biology, or quantitative or computational biology. Individuals with expertise in these areas are encouraged to apply.
In addition to having a passion for undergraduate teaching, research and mentorship, the UNC Asheville faculty is committed to disciplinary teaching through an inter- and multi-disciplinary lens and providing a premiere liberal arts education. Faculty members teach across the University's Liberal Arts Core (LAC) program, our required interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum in courses that include, but are not limited to: introductory (freshman) colloquia; diversity intensives; courses that satisfy the Scientific Perspectives, Social Science courses and Arts and Ideas requirements; courses within the Humanities Program; and LAC Senior Capstone courses.
UNC Asheville is committed to promoting diversity and a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and the ability to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds. Faculty members across campus and especially in STEM disciplines are encouraged to participate in leading the institution's efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion in the areas of pedagogy, programming, and service activity. Therefore, candidates interested in teaching science to and developing outreach activity for diverse student populations are especially encouraged to apply.
Applications for this position should be submitted electronically at https://jobs.unca.edu. Complete applications will include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of teaching philosophy, a statement of research philosophy that includes a description of future research plans, unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and three letters of reference. The applicant's letters of reference should address the candidate's written, verbal and interpersonal skills; ability to teach and mentor undergraduate students; and potential to develop a successful, externally funded research program. Review of applications will begin October 27th, 2022 and continue until the position is filled. Inquires may be directed to Dr. Jonathan Horton, jhorton@unca.edu, Search Committee Chair.
UNC Asheville is committed to equality and diversity of experiences for our students. Qualified individuals are encouraged to apply regardless of socio-economic status, gender expression, gender and sexual identity, culture, or ideological beliefs. UNC Asheville is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and will not discriminate against students, applicants, or employees on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, sex, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status with respect to all terms, conditions, and privileges of university-sponsored activities, employment, and the use of university facilities.