Assistant/Associate Professor of Chemistry

Department: Biology

Position: Full-time (10-month), tenure-track position with complete benefit package

Salary: Negotiable within the range established in the CBA (starting at up to $54,000/$60,000)
Union Affiliation: MFPE

Posting Date: October 2022

Start Date: August 1, 2023

Description

The Biology Department at the University of Montana Western seeks an innovative, passionate, science educator/researcher in the area of chemistry. The position is a full-time, tenure-track appointment at the assistant or associate professor level. The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate a teaching approach that will take advantage of Montana Western’s unique immersion scheduling model (Experience One). This model, where students take and faculty teach a single 3.5 week course at a time, is the mission of the campus and an unparalleled opportunity for a talented and creative educator to merge research with undergraduate learning.

This position fills a critical role at the University of Montana Western and supports students from many different areas of study including biomedical sciences, ecology, environmental science, kinesiology, psychology and equine science.  Initial teaching responsibilities will include science majors’ courses in College Chemistry I, II (General Chemistry) and Organic Chemistry I & II using the Experience One model where lectures and labs are integrated in classes that meet for a minimum of 3 hours each day.  There will also be opportunities to develop courses in the chosen candidate’s area of interest.  Additional responsibilities will include advising, writing student recommendation letters and providing student research opportunities, as well as maintaining the chemistry stockroom. The teaching load is 12 credits per semester, which are taught during three of the four blocks offered during a semester. The fourth block is for conducting required professional development activities, such as research with undergraduate students, attending meetings or writing grant proposals and research papers.  As mentioned above, this position will support various academic programs, but it is especially important for students in our pre-professional health programs. 

Qualifications

The successful candidate will hold a doctorate in organic chemistry or a biomedically relevant chemistry field and must be able to effectively teach organic chemistry.  ABD candidates will be considered. The candidate should be an engaging and dedicated teacher who is committed to undergraduate student learning and success. The research interests of the candidate should be able to accommodate students from various scientific fields, but a background in biomedical research is highly preferred.  In addition, the successful candidate will have a demonstrated ability, or strong interest in experiential learning and innovative undergraduate education using Montana Western’s block scheduling model. College-level teaching experience (including general and organic chemistry courses) is highly preferred.  The University of Montana Western values diversity, so applicants from diverse backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply.

Application

Review of applications will begin by November 1, 2022, but will remain open until the position is filled.

Apply online at https://university-montana-hr.silkroad.com/epostings/index.cfm?fuseaction=app.jobinfo&jobid=3616&company_id=16254&version=1&source=ONLINE&jobOwner=994484&aid=1 

A complete application Includes:

1. Letter of Interest – addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A statement of teaching philosophy (< 2 pages) A statement of research interests (< 2 pages) A curriculum vitae - including contact information for at least three professional references Transcripts - official or unofficial graduate and undergraduate transcripts Professional References – names and contact information for three (3) professional references.

All application materials should be submitted as a single PDF file. Required application materials can be uploaded to the CV submission portal.

Teaching evaluations may be requested at a later time. Official transcripts will be required at the time of hire. 

Inquiries can be made to Dr. Michael Morrow at (406) 683-7254; michael.morrow@umwestern.edu.

The University & Dillon Area

The University of Montana Western is a dynamic, innovative, undergraduate university with over 70 full-time faculty and over 1,200 students. It is located in Dillon, Montana in the scenic Rocky Mountains and has been awarded numerous top national rankings for delivering high quality, affordable education.

Montana Western is the only public four-year college in the nation offering Experience One (X1), experiential learning delivered on the block schedule. Class sizes are small and students take a single course at a time, three hours each day for 18 days, before moving on to the next course. Each course is four credits and four blocks are offered each semester. The block schedule facilitates field and lab work, undergraduate research, study travel, and interdisciplinary teaching. Montana Western’s faculty strongly believe in mentoring and inspiring students, and assisting them in the transition from university life to professional careers.

The University of Montana Western is an integral part of the Dillon Community. With a population of 5,000 people, Dillon is known for outstanding public schools, safe environments, recreational opportunities, and an excellent quality of life.

The University of Montana Western is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and encourages applications from qualified women, minorities, veterans and people with disabilities. Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the Offer of Employment In accordance with University regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations. ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications from minorities, veterans, and women. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law. References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UMW may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions. Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UMW, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).