Description
Position: Truman State University has one appointment on either the tenure-track or non-tenure track beginning August 2025, for outstanding candidates with expertise in organic chemistry and/or inorganic chemistry. Candidates with expertise that would allow them to teach across subdisciplines are especially encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities: Successful candidates for either position will provide classroom instruction in upper-level courses in their area of specialization, in addition to introductory chemistry classes and interdisciplinary courses that support the liberal arts and sciences mission of the University. Successful tenure-track candidates will conduct research with and mentor undergraduate students, assist and lead curriculum development, and serve on departmental and university-level committees. Although not a requirement of the non-tenure track position, successful non-tenure track candidates will have the opportunity to participate or lead in curriculum development and serve on departmental and university-level committees. Truman is looking for field-specific expertise accompanied by an ability to teach to students following a broad range of pathways in the liberal arts and sciences. Successful candidates will be excited by the opportunity to engage in intentional collaborative research (for the tenure-track position) and curricular and co-curricular experiences across programs, departments, and schools. Truman is committed to responding to rapidly evolving changes in our fields and in the workforce, embracing expansive modes of inquiry, and building strong communities of practice to address real world needs.
Required Qualifications: For the non-tenure track position, a doctoral degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related field, with demonstrated teaching experience in in chemistry is preferred — ABD candidates (with expected completion within a year of the start date) will be considered, as will candidates with a master’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry or a closely related field, who also have at least two years of relevant teaching experience.
For the tenure-track position, a Ph.D. (completed by the start date) in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field is required.
All applicants will be evaluated on academic qualifications; support for the liberal arts and sciences mission of the University; teaching philosophy and experience; demonstrated potential for success in teaching chemistry courses; evidence of effective communication and interpersonal skills; and compatibility with the department’s needs. Applicants for tenure track status will also be evaluated on their statement of research interests and clear plans for a sustainable research program involving undergraduates.
Benefits: Truman offers an attractive benefits package including: medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; retirement contributions and paid sick leave. Paid parental leave and tuition discount are available for eligible employees after one year. For more information, visit https://hr.truman.edu/benefits/.
Program: The Chemistry, and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology programs are in the School of Science and Mathematics at Truman State University and are part of the Department of Physical Sciences, that also includes programs in Physics and Pre-Engineering. Within the Department are 11 chemistry faculty members, and approximately 100 undergraduate majors in Chemistry and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology programs, graduating approximately 25 American Chemical Society - certified B.S. graduates yearly. The Biochemistry & Molecular Biology major was introduced in Fall 2018 and graduated its first major in Spring 2020. In addition, the Department provides classes to support more than 600 biology, agriculture, and health-related majors. The Department also offers courses in the Dialogues, Truman’s liberal studies core curriculum, and opportunities for faculty members to pursue interdisciplinary teaching and research exist within the School and as part of the Dialogues. For more information about the Chemistry program, please visit http://chemistry.truman.edu/.
The University: Truman State University is home to a vibrant educational community. The approximately 3,500 students who make up its student body are well prepared for challenging academics in a supportive environment. More than 25% engage in significant undergraduate research and creative projects. Nearly 40% gain leadership experience, and nearly half plan to go on to graduate or professional school. Founded in 1867, Truman is known for its focus on student learning and outcomes and places an emphasis on high-impact experiences such as internships, research, and study abroad opportunities. Truman has the highest overall graduation rate among the state’s public four-year colleges and universities. For more than two decades, Truman has been recognized as the No. 1 public university in the Midwest regional category by U.S. News & World Report, and Washington Monthly consistently ranks Truman as one of the best master’s universities in the nation. For more information regarding additional rankings and acknowledgments, visit truman.edu/about.
The Community: Located in northeast Missouri, Kirksville is a cultural and economic hub in the region. In addition to being the home of Truman, Kirksville is the birthplace of osteopathic medicine and features a medical school, dental school and community college, and the Kirksville School District is consistently recognized for academic excellence. The community takes pride in several annual events including the Red, White and Blue Festival and the FLATS Trail Half-Marathon. The charming downtown area features an arts center, as well as several local shops and restaurants. It is also the site of numerous community events including weekly farmers’ markets from May through October, as well as the Red Barn Arts and Craft Festival each fall. Just a few minutes outside of town is beautiful Thousand Hills State Park with hiking and biking opportunities surrounding the 700-acre Forest Lake. Kirksville offers easy access by car to Kansas City, St. Louis, Chicago and Des Moines. Daily flights from Kirksville Regional Airport to Chicago O’Hare provide quick access to one of the country’s major metropolitan areas. More information about Kirksville can be found at visitkirksville.com.
Application: The application process is handled by the School of Science and Mathematics. Applications must be submitted electronically at http://employment.truman.edu/. For assistance with submitting an application, please contact Human Resources at 660-786-4031 or hrstaff@truman.edu.
Completed applications for both positions must include a letter of application that clearly addresses the qualifications and evaluative criteria listed above, a statement of teaching philosophy, current curriculum vitae, official or unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and contact information for three references. To be considered for a tenure-track position, the application must also include a statement of research interests and clear plans for a sustainable research program involving undergraduates.
Review of applications will begin on April 18, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by April 18, 2025 will receive priority screening. If hired, applicants must provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States, official graduate transcripts, or documentation of degrees if transcripts are not available. Final candidates will be expected to undergo and successfully pass a background check.
Questions about this position may be directed to Dr. Brian Lamp, Professor of Chemistry and Chair of the Department of Physical Sciences, blamp@truman.edu.
Truman State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. In compliance with applicable laws and in furtherance of its commitment to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity, Truman State does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or protected veteran status in its program or activities, including employment, admissions, and educational programs. Inquiries may be directed to the Institutional Compliance Officer, 660-785-4354, and titleix@truman.edu.
Truman State is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate form or to request an accommodation, please contact Human Resources, McClain Hall 101, 100 E. Normal, Kirksville, MO 63501, 660-785-4031 or hrstaff@truman.edu.