Assistant Professor of Biochemistry

The Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry & Physics offers an exciting career opportunity for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the field of Biochemistry. We seek a dynamic and dedicated researcher focused on cellular and molecular mechanisms of inflammation and immune responses and committed to teaching and student success. The ideal candidate will develop a strong research program associated with our NIH Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE), focused on inflammation-related processes, broadly defined. Candidates will benefit from state-of-the-art core facilities, including advanced optical microscopy, sequencing, metabolomics/mass spectrometry and animal models. Located on our main campus in Brookings, South Dakota, this is a 9-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position with an anticipated start date of August 2025.

The Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics provides students with a solid foundation in scientific disciplines through challenging coursework, laboratory explorations and research opportunities. Our recent graduates have gone on to work at local or national companies and research laboratories, attending medical schools, pursuing graduate degrees and teaching at the high school and university levels.

South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant mission of access.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Research and Scholarship: The Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry & Physics is searching for a faculty member who is expected to develop a nationally/internationally-recognized research program in cellular and molecular biochemistry associated with inflammatory and/or immune processes. This faculty member will be part of a vibrant group of researchers studying macrophage and natural killer cell biology, development lymphatic, mechanisms of proptosis and other cell and molecular mechanisms, inflammation and immunity. The faculty member will also have an appointment with the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station, a close partner of the BioSNTRii COBRE. The desired research program will take advantage of one or more of the following techniques: optical microscopy to visualize molecular function, genomics and sequencing to understand cellular transcriptional programs and responses, metabolomic and mass spectroscopic methods and/or innovative development of animal models. Opportunities to expand research into other relevant areas are also welcome. Collaborative research and interdisciplinary engagement are encouraged. The successful candidate should demonstrate a desire and ability to perform impactful research and scholarship activities, pursuing external funding to maintain a strong research program. The successful candidate will mentor undergraduate and graduate students and collaborate with other BioSNTRii COBRE faculty.

Teaching and Curriculum Development: Develop and deliver a curriculum for undergraduate and graduate courses related to biochemistry. Contribute to curriculum development, ensuring alignment with industry standards and emerging trends in the field. Deliver course content using innovative and modern methods to enhance student engagement for a more effective learning experience.

Service to the Department and University: The faculty member will be expected to actively participate in departmental meetings, committees, and other service activities and contribute to the broader academic community through involvement in university-wide initiatives.

SALARY RANGE:

The salary range for this position is contingent upon qualifications, with a minimum 9-month salary of $78,000. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.

BENEFITS:

South Dakota State University is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $60 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. We offer a rich academic experience in an environment of inclusions and access.The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. South Dakota State University offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and leave. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, cell biology, immunology or closely related field by start date.
• Ability or strong potential to teach graduate and undergraduate Biochemistry courses at the collegiate level.
• Ability or strong potential to mentor graduate and undergraduate students in academics and research.
• Ability or strong potential to develop an independent research program with a focus on, or closely related to, inflammation or immune response with publication of results in refereed journals.
• Ability or strong potential to successfully obtain extramural funding through grant writing.
• Ability or strong potential to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

SDSU accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a 1.) cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications and responsibilities as outlined in the advertisement, 2.) Curriculum Vitae, 3.) Research Statement (3-page limit, attached as ‘work or writing sample’), 4.) Teaching Statement (3-page limit, attached as ‘other’), and 5.) a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.

South Dakota State University is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.