Assistant Professor of Biology (Specialization in Exercise Science)

To support our new major in Kinesiology, the University of Mary Washington invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Biology with a specialization in Exercise Science/ Kinesiology/Biomechanics to start August 15, 2025. We seek a candidate with a passion for teaching, mentoring undergraduate research students, and contributing to a dynamic academic community. The successful candidate will be broadly trained in biology, with the ability to teach kinesiology (biomechanics), exercise physiology, human anatomy, and courses within their specific area of expertise. 

Responsibilities:

• Teach undergraduate courses in biomechanics, exercise physiology, human anatomy, and additional courses aligned with the candidate’s specialization (12 credits/semester). 
• Develop a course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) class in Exercise Science/ Kinesiology/Biomechanics or a related field. 
• Develop and maintain an active research program that includes mentorship of undergraduate students in projects within the candidate's discipline. Research using human subjects, with IRB approval, is preferred.   
• Contribute to curriculum development and assessment within the Department of Biological Sciences 
• Participate in service to the department, college, and broader academic community. 
• Highly qualified candidates will be able to demonstrate teaching experience and excellence in teaching in an inclusive environment that embraces diverse talents and backgrounds.” 

Qualifications: 

• Ph.D. in Biology, Exercise Science/ Kinesiology/Biomechanics, or a related field by the start date. 
• Broad training in biology with expertise in kinesiology, biomechanics, or exercise physiology. 
• Demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching at the undergraduate level. 
• A strong record of or potential for involving undergraduate students in research. 
• Ability to teach additional courses in the candidate’s area of specialization is highly desirable. 

Application Instructions: 

• Interested candidates should submit the following materials: 
• A cover letter that addresses qualifications and interest in the position. 
• Curriculum vitae (CV). 
• A statement of teaching philosophy. 
• A research statement outlining plans for engaging undergraduate students in research. 
• Contact information for three professional references. 
• Unofficial transcript from all undergraduate and post-graduate institutions from where degrees were earned. Ability to provide official transcripts as needed. 

Application Deadline: 

• For full consideration, submit all materials by Dec 5, 2024. 
   

About UMW: 

UMW is a public liberal arts and sciences university dedicated to effective teaching and undergraduate research.  The Department of Biological Sciences offers majors in biology, conservation biology, and biomedical sciences, and supports other major programs in chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental science, along with minors in biology, neuroscience, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, Biological Sciences is cooperating with the Department of Athletics, Health, and Physical Education to develop a major in kinesiology; this position aims to support this new major. In 2019, Biological Sciences moved into new laboratory and teaching facilities in the renovated Jepson Science Center, which is well-equipped to support its teaching and research missions.  

Recently recognized as a “Great College to Work For” by the Chronicle of Higher Education, UMW is centrally located between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, VA. Many of our students, including a strong population of student-athletes, are pursuing careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and related healthcare fields. These students provide an eager and motivated pool for our new major in kinesiology and will contribute significantly to the candidate’s research lab. Additionally, nearby government labs, and a large medical network that includes Mary Washington Hospital provide opportunities for collaborative research and student internships. 

The appointee can look forward to joining a faculty of 15 who are committed to research that engages undergraduate students. The appointee will be expected to develop an original research program to complement existing departmental research programs, utilizing our newly redesigned and expanded research spaces. The normal teaching load is 12 credit hours per semester. In addition to the regular annual 9-month contract, opportunities for summer research and teaching are available. Continuing professional development and participation in departmental and college-wide service are expected. Completion of the Ph.D. is required by August 15, 2025. Review of applications will begin Dec 5, 2024 and continue until this position has been filled. To submit materials, visit https://jobs.umw.edu 

The University of Mary Washington is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status. We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to these core principles.