Description

The Department of Chemistry in the LSU College of Science seeks a tenure-track faculty member in analytical/forensic chemistry for an August 2026 start date. Candidates are required to have strong experience in analytical chemistry, broadly defined. Preference will be given to those having research interests aligned with the LSU Scholarship First Agenda (https://www.lsu.edu/scholarship-first/) and focusing on chemical analysis and forensics applications in agriculture, biomedicine, coastal environment, defense, and energy. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research environment with instrumentation resources including NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, x-ray crystallography, optical and electron microscopy, and polymer analysis, and will have multiple opportunities to collaborate within the Chemistry Department (see research themes below), forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies, and across the Louisiana State University System.

Job Responsibilities:

• Teach at the undergraduate and/or graduate level courses in chemistry and the subdiscipline of forensic chemistry as required by departmental need; direct/supervise graduate and undergraduate students; Engage in departmental and professional service, Maintain professional standards and level of competence. (50%)

• Establish a strong, well-funded, widely recognized research program; publish results of research in appropriate journals and/or other media. (50%)

LSU Chemistry: Faculty in the department carry out research in a variety of themes, including catalysis, energy, materials, spectroscopy, and synthesis, as well as biological, computational, forensic and environmental chemistry. Our offices and laboratories are in two buildings, Choppin Hall and the adjacent Chemistry & Materials Building. There are several instrument facilities, including state-of-the-art solid and liquid NMR, mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography, optical and electron microscopy, EPR, spectroscopy, and a synchrotron radiation facility: https://www.lsu.edu/science/chemistry/research/facilities.php.

Application Process: Applications should consist of a cover letter, curriculum vitae, proposed research plan, teaching philosophy, preferably in that order, as a single pdf documents. As a guide, a length of 1-2 pages is suggested for the teaching philosophy. Copies of transcripts may be attached to the application; however, original transcripts will be required prior to an appointment. If degree was received outside of the US, a credential evaluation will be required. Applicants should arrange to have a minimum of three letters of recommendation emailed directly from recommenders to Mrs. Amy Commander (acom@lsu.edu). Please use the following subject line: LSU Chemistry Analytical Faculty Search. Review of applications will begin November 15, 2025 and continue until the position is filled.

For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact Dr. Mario Rivera at mrivera@lsu.edu.   

Additional Job Description:

Safety and Security Sensitive Job - Safety and security-sensitive positions are defined as those positions where any form of substance abuse may affect University activities through unsafe work behavior/performance or error in judgment; or where substance abuse could jeopardize the safety and well-being of employees, other personnel, or the public, or cause significant damage to university property. This includes positions requiring firearms, access to controlled substances, handling hazardous material, operating heavy equipment or machinery, etc. These positions are subject to drug screens per PS-67/FASOP HR-04.

FERPA - As with all LSU employees, due to this position title and/or responsibilities, this position has an obligation to assist students in the acquisition of necessary services. Should a student appear in need of or seek assistance with issues of an emotional, behavioral, or mental health related matter they should be referred to the proper service within the Student Health Center. In situations where the student creates an impression that they are a danger to themselves or others, the advisor should immediately contact the Care Team, the Dean of Students or the appropriate law enforcement agency. The employee outside of those rights contained within FERPA should create no impression of client or patient confidentiality.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or closely related field

• Demonstrated excellence in research and teaching

• Strong experience in analytical chemistry, broadly defined. Preference may be given to those with research interests aligned with the LSU 2025 Strategic Plan (https://lsu.edu/strategic-framework/index.php) and the Scholarship First Agenda (https://www.lsu.edu/scholarship-first/)

Special or Physical Requirements:

• Physical ability and eye-hand coordination necessary to use a computer/laptop/iPad.

• Ability to sit and/or stand in the same position for extended periods (3.5 to 4 hours) at a time.

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively using phone, email, Zoom/Teams or direct contact with individuals (including conducting presentations or trainings and interacting with students/families).