Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Medical Microbiology Western Colorado University

POSITION:  Western Colorado University invites applications for a tenure-track position in Medical Microbiology at the assistant professor level.  The primary teaching responsibilities include lecture and laboratory courses in medical microbiology (upper and lower division).  Secondary teaching responsibilities will include genomics and introductory biology. Special consideration will be given to candidates who can teach cell biology, genetics, and courses in the candidate’s area of expertise that support the degree program in biology.  Opportunities to develop research projects in collaboration with colleagues in a variety of fields of biology exists.

The position requires teaching 24 semester credits per academic year with the possibility of some reassigned time to conduct research involving undergraduates.   Responsibilities also include development and supervision of a robust undergraduate research program, seeking external funding, academic advising, assessment, student recruitment, service to pre-health students, service to the university, and continued professional development.

QUALIFICATIONS:   A doctorate in biology is required.  A candidate’s research and/or teaching experience must demonstrate a focus on medically-relevant aspects of microbiology or related fields.  Candidates must possess a strong commitment to innovative undergraduate education and demonstrate experience and excellence in teaching in lecture and laboratory settings. A demonstrated commitment to program building, undergraduate research and other student mentoring activities is expected. Collegiality and professional flexibility are characteristic of the department and will be sought in the successful candidate.

SALARY:  Salary: $55,000 - $60,000 depending on qualifications and experience. Benefits include an employee/employer shared contribution retirement plan and life and health insurance.

START DATE:   August 2022

APPLICATION:  Apply online at www.western.edu/jobs.  Required attachments to the application include: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, evidence of teaching effectiveness, a statement of research interests, and academic transcripts.

Three letters of recommendation are also required and these must be submitted via email to ssiegfried@western.edu.

Please direct questions regarding the position to Dr. Shan Hays, search committee chair: shhays@western.edu

Unofficial transcripts are acceptable during screening. Official transcripts are required prior to issuing contract.

Screening of applications will begin November 29, 2021 and will continue until the position is filled.

Western is a residential, public university with an enrollment of 3,000 students who come from across Colorado and all fifty states. Western is a student-oriented, collegial, energetic, and engaged campus and community. Faculty help students develop the skills and commitments needed to continue learning throughout their lives and strive to elucidate the connections unifying academic domains, which have traditionally existed separately: the sciences, liberal arts and professional programs. The curriculum provides professional flexibility where experiential learning and interdisciplinary approaches are valued. Western is also an advocate of diversity, equity, and inclusivity of all types including ability (physical, mental), social class, racial/ethnic, linguistic, religion, sexual orientation, age, experience, gender, and cultural. Please see our diversity statement, and our DEII Committee charge. The university is located in Gunnison, Colorado, a rural community 200 miles southwest of Denver. At an elevation of 7,700 feet in the southern Rocky Mountains, the Gunnison Valley provides significant year-round outdoor recreational opportunities. Employees have chosen Western because of the quality of life combined with rewarding careers. Visit http://www.western.edu  to learn more about the university.

Western Colorado University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive campus.