Description

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Southwestern University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position with expertise in biochemistry beginning in August of 2027. We seek a dedicated biochemist committed to innovative, student-centered education who is enthusiastic about mentoring undergraduates in both classroom and research settings. The successful candidate will have opportunities to contribute to the University’s developing interdisciplinary neuroscience program and general education curriculum.

The successful candidate will teach five courses per academic year in our American Chemical Society (ACS) approved department. These courses will include undergraduate upper-level biochemistry lectures and laboratories, general chemistry, and specialty courses in the candidate’s area of expertise. Additional responsibilities include maintaining an active scholarly agenda, academic advising, and departmental and university service. The department encourages applications from candidates with a demonstrated interest in fostering inclusive excellence in the classroom, curricular innovation, and pedagogical creativity.

Additional information about the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department is available at www.southwestern.edu/chemistry-and-biochemistry/.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

PhD in in Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related field within chemistry from an accredited institution.
Advanced ABD candidates from an accredited university may also be considered with the expectation that the terminal degree will be earned by August 1, 2027.
Strong commitment to student success and teaching at a residential liberal arts and sciences institution.
Ability to establish and maintain an active research program involving undergraduate students.
Postdoctoral and/or prior teaching experience is desirable but not required.
 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please submit the following materials by October 2: 

• A letter of interest detailing your qualifications, commitment to undergraduate education at a liberal arts and sciences institution, and expertise in biochemistry.
• A current curriculum vitae.
• A statement of teaching philosophy outlining your approach to undergraduate teaching, including evidence-based and inclusive teaching practices and your experience or plans for engaging a diverse student population (no more than 2 pages).
• A statement of research interests and plans, including the potential for meaningful undergraduate student involvement in the proposed research program (no more than 3 pages).
• Contact information for three references.
• Supplementary materials requested at a later stage:
  • Finalists will be asked to have letters of recommendation submitted promptly, so applicants should ensure that references are prepared to provide letters on short notice.

Starting annual salary for 9-month position: $70,000. The final offer for the successful candidate will be commensurate with experience and may exceed this figure. Teaching in Southwestern University summer school provides faculty with an opportunity to supplement their income during the summer months. Tenure-track faculty typically conduct research with undergraduate students during the summer, and their income  can be supplemented through competitive Southwestern Undergraduate Research with Faculty (SURF) funding. 

This position is not eligible for employer immigration sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without requiring employer-sponsored work authorization.