Assistant Professor, Microbiology

Closing Date:

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that's redefining higher education. We're on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. We're committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas's rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state's varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Required Education and/or Work Experience:

• Ph.D. in Biology, or a closely related field, with substantial coursework and research in microbiology. (ABD with completion date no later than August 2025 considered)
• Demonstrated ability to teach microbiology at the undergraduate level.

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience:

• Experience teaching microbiology courses, including both lecture and laboratory components.
• A strong record of scholarship or research in microbiology.
• Experience mentoring undergraduate students in research.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for teaching undergraduate courses, both online and in the classroom. Course load is 24 workload hours per academic year, or 12 workload hours per semester.
• Assist with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Create and maintain an environment which emphasizes learning, encourages free discussion of ideas, and critical thinking.
• Strive to consistently make effective improvements to pedagogies based on current approaches and strategies for teaching and learning.
• Evaluate student progress in knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and application by the implementation of current assessment strategies.
• Recruitment and retention of students.
• Advise and mentor students, specifically during mandatory Fall and Spring advising sessions.
• Maintain an active research program, including grantsmanship, presentations at appropriate national and regional conferences, and publication of scholarly work.
• Maintain appropriate standards of professional conduct and ethics.
• Service to department, college, university, community, and profession.

Other Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strive to maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner that fosters teamwork and by providing leadership on mission-critical activities.
• Punctual attendance at required department, college, and university faculty meetings.
• Other duties as assigned.

Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates. Requires consistent on-time attendance.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

• Expertise in some specialty within the broad field of microbiology.
• Superior writing skills and oral communication.
• A willingness to be engaged in shared governance.
• Ability to collaborate with colleagues in the department, college, and university.

Additional Information:

Working Relationships: Works with a diverse team of administrators, faculty, staff, and students to create a welcoming atmosphere for students. Understands the importance of and implements inclusion in the classroom environment. Contributes to the diversity and equity culture of the Department. Able and willing to address issues of race, class, gender, and representation in all the courses they teach.

List Employees Supervised: N/A

Special Job Dimensions: Work performed primarily in an office or classroom setting. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly exhibits digital dexterity when entering data into a computer. The employee frequently sits for extended periods of time, and occasionally stands and walks. Employee occasionally lifts items up to 50 pounds. Routine work schedule Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm with occasional overtime and travel required.

Background Check Requirements. Criminal Background Check and Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) Check.

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity). Federal law prohibits the University from discriminating on these bases. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.