Assistant Professor

JOB NO:503078
POSITION TYPE: Full-Time 9-Month
DEPARTMENT: Biochem, MolBio, Entomology & Plant Path
LOCATION: Main Campus - Starkville, MS
CATEGORIES: Faculty
POSITION OPEN DATE:  Sep 16 2021

Position Function:

The Department seeks applicants for an Assistant Professor position who will pursue cross-disciplinary approaches involving biochemical sciences to investigate significant biological problems consistent with the mission of the Department. This is a 9-month tenure-track position with a workload of 40% teaching and 60% research.

Department Profile:

The Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology pursues an academic research and service mission within the traditions of Land-Grant Universities. The Department offers B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. degrees and currently advises approximately 500 undergraduate and 50 graduate students.

Area of Specialization:

Biochemistry

Anticipated Appointment Date:

August 16, 2022

Tenure Track Status:

Tenure Track

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The successful candidate is expected to develop an internationally recognized and extramurally funded innovative research program that utilizes advanced biochemical approaches to address research topics that synergize with existing departmental strengths. Research topics that leverage the multi-disciplinary nature of the department will be prioritized. We encourage applications from individuals whose research addresses fundamental biological questions in areas such as, but not limited to, molecular host-microbiome interactions, immunology, protein/enzyme structure and function, molecular evolution, and bioinformatics, and who possess demonstrable expertise in high-throughput experimental approaches and -omics analysis. Research topics of particular interest include functions and interactions of microbiomes associated with animal, plant and insect systems.
The primary attributes we seek in candidates are (1) demonstrated excellence in directing a successful and independent research program that is extramurally funded, and (2) potential or demonstrated excellence in teaching and mentoring. Both attributes are extremely important for a successful hire. Successful applicants will have a strong commitment to undergraduate and graduate education and are expected to teach the core courses in the Department’s undergraduate curriculum, as well as develop advanced courses relevant to their specific area of expertise. In addition to maintaining an active research program, the successful candidate will be expected to engage in service activities, interact and collaborate with colleagues, and generally contribute to the diverse missions of the Department.
Our department strongly supports an inclusive, multicultural environment and is sensitive to the needs of underrepresented minorities. We are committed to the diversification of our faculty body, and new hires are expected to promote respect, integrity, accountability, diversity and inclusion by committing to these core values and academic behavioral standards. The cover letter should contain a statement outlining the candidate’s approach to integrating diversity in their pursuit of academic excellence.

Minimum Qualifications:

A completed Ph.D. in Biochemistry or related field is required. ABD candidates will not be considered. Preference will be given to candidates with postdoctoral experience and a clear potential for, or demonstrated excellence in grantsmanship, research, teaching, and service. Applicants should possess a strong sense of personal initiative and a willingness to participate in interdisciplinary, collaborative research. Applications from women and other groups under-represented in STEM disciplines are strongly encouraged.

ABDs or degree pending considered (all but DISS):

No

Instructions for Applying:

Link to apply:  http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/

For a complete position description and application instructions please visit www.jobs.msstate.edu.  All candidates are required to complete the Personal Data Information Form on-line and attach CV, cover letter, statements of research interests and teaching philosophy, describing how their background and training have prepared the candidate to contribute to the biochemistry program and unofficial transcripts. Any social security numbers on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online. Applicants must also provide contact information for at least three potential references. Screening will begin on or around October 15th and will continue until the position is filled. Departmental Contact: Ms. Kathy Breland, Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Mailstop 9775, Mississippi State, MS 39762, Phone: 662-325-2086; Fax: 325-8836, E-mail: Kbreland@entomology.msstate.edu.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.