Assistant Professor of Biology (Vertebrate Biologist) The Department of Biology and Geology at the University of South Carolina Aiken (web.usca.edu/biology<http://www.usca.edu/biogeo>) seeks applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Biology. Ph.D. required; post-doctoral experience preferred. We are particularly interested in candidates whose research utilizes a molecular approach, integrated with a strong field component, to study vertebrate biology. Start date: August 2015. Primary teaching responsibilities include undergraduate courses in introductory biology, vertebrate biology, and a specialty area (herpetology, mammalogy, or ornithology). The successful candidate will join a diverse group of scientists with expertise that includes cellular/molecular biology, developmental vertebrate biology, ecology, and environmental toxicology. In addition to teaching, the successful candidate will develop an active research program that includes mentoring of undergraduate research projects. The Department has a history of funded research and places a high value on undergraduate research. Required qualifications:
1. PhD in vertebrate biology, or similar, to include expertise in herpetology, mammalogy, or ornithology. 2. Commitment to excellence in teaching 3. Evidence of excellence in research and a publication record commensurate with career level 4. The ability to develop a laboratory-based research program that involves mentoring undergraduate research Preferred qualifications: 1. Teaching experience at the undergraduate level 2. Postdoctoral experience 3. Record of continuous scholarly activity, including referred publications 4. Demonstration of a strong interest in teaching and research at a small comprehensive liberal arts institution University information For the past 17 years, the University of South Carolina Aiken has consistently ranked among the top three public baccalaureate colleges in the South by U.S. News & World Report’s annual “America’s Best Colleges” guide. USCA is also a recipient of The Chronicle of Higher Education’s “Best Place To Work” designation, with top honors for collaborative governance and confidence in senior leadership. Founded in 1961 with generous and enthusiastic support from the local community, USC Aiken has grown to serve more than 3,200 students on its beautiful 453-acre campus. USC Aiken is a comprehensive liberal arts institution with talented faculty committed to active learning through excellence in teaching, undergraduate research, scholarship, and civic engagement. A 15:1 student-faculty ratio allows for highly engaged pedagogies with USC Aiken selected as the college of choice by students from 29 states and 20 countries. According to the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE), USC Aiken seniors rank the campus as contributing to their knowledge, skills and personal development at rates significantly higher than other institutions that participate in the survey. Department information The Department of Biology and Geology is comprised of twelve biologists and three geologists having a wide range of expertise. We offer BA and BS degrees in biology as well as a concentration in Environmental Remediation and Restoration with a current enrollment of approximately 250 undergraduates. Our curriculum is research oriented and allows students to tailor their degree towards their biological/geological interests. Moreover, prior to graduation each student must spend at least one semester as an active participant in the research process. Additional requirements Hiring will be conditional upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check. Application procedure Apply online at https://uscjobs.sc.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=74907 and include 1. A cover letter explaining how your training and experience qualifies you to fulfill the required and preferred requirements for this position 2. A current curriculum vitae 3. A statement of teaching philosophy, including courses taught 4. Research statement, including how you would incorporate undergraduates Submit undergraduate and graduate transcripts along with three letters of reference to Dr. Nathan Hancock, Department of Biology and Geology, USC Aiken, 471 University Parkway, Aiken SC 29801. Review of applications will begin on October 30, 2014 and continue until position is filled.Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. USCA is an AA/EOE. Andy Dyer Professor Washington Group Chair in Science Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) Dept. of Biology & Geology USC Aiken 803-641-3443
