Position title
Department of Biological Sciences- Department Chair
Description

The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, invites applications for Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences. Applicants must have a Ph.D. and have obtained the rank of Associate or Full Professor at their current institution. Evidence of significant intellectual contributions to their field of research, a strong record of publication and extramural funding, and a demonstrated commitment to teaching in a biological sciences department at both the undergraduate and graduate levels are required. The Department of Biological Sciences has approximately 1,800 undergraduate students pursuing BS degrees in biology, microbiology and marine science. In addition, the department has approximately 130 graduate students enrolled in Biology MA and MS, Marine Biology MS, and Biology PhD programs. The University of Alabama is the state’s flagship public university with an R1 rating for research activity. UA enrolls over 38,320 students, the majority from outside the state. UA has ranked among the top 70 public universities in the nation by U.S. World and News Report’s annual college rankings for more than a decade, and has produced 60 Goldwater Scholars, 15 Rhodes Scholars, 16 Truman Scholars, 38 Hollins Scholars, and 16 Boren Scholars. The University of Alabama is also a leader among public universities nationwide for enrollment of National Merit Scholars with more than 900 currently enrolled. There are currently 33 faculty who have received NSF Career Awards, the nation’s most prestigious recognition of top-performing young scientists. UA was also recognized as a top producer of Fulbright Scholars for the fifth time in six years in 2021-2022. UA is located in Tuscaloosa, a metropolitan area of over 250,000, with a vibrant economy, a moderate climate, and an innovative and progressive community with an excellent quality of life. It offers exceptional educational, cultural, sports and recreational opportunities to faculty and their families. Tuscaloosa also provides easy access to mountains and water recreation, tremendous biodiversity, and is one hour from Birmingham, three hours from Atlanta, and five hours from the gulf coast. Questions about the position should be addressed to the chair of the search committee, Dr. Steven Thomas (sathomas16@ua.edu). To apply, go to https://careers.ua.edu/jobs/search/AS, complete the online application (https://careers.ua.edu/jobs/search/AS), and upload: (1) a cover letter; (2) a CV; (3) a three-page statement describing your past administrative experience, your approach to departmental management, and vision for the department; (4) a three-page statement describing past research achievements and future goals; (5) a one-page statement of teaching interests and philosophy; (6) a one-page statement on the ways in which issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion has shaped your approach to teaching, research, and service; and (7) a list of three to five references (including contact information). The search committee will request letters of reference as needed. Consideration of applications will begin December 1st, 2023, and will continue until the position is filled. Before hiring, the final candidate must pass a pre-employment background check. The start date is August 16, 2024. Additional information about the Department of Biological Sciences and this position can be found on our website at http://bsc.ua.edu.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate is also expected to foster, lead, and manage an integrative department with consideration of institute policies and procedures. The successful candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to the promotion of diversity and inclusion among faculty, staff, and students. While no defined research focus is required for the position, the successful candidate’s expertise should complement and advance existing research within the department and university.

Qualifications

Applicants must have a Ph.D. and obtained the rank of Associate or Full Professor at their current institution. Evidence of significant intellectual contributions to their field of research, a strong record of publication and extramural funding, and a demonstrated commitment to teaching in a biological sciences department at both the undergraduate and graduate level are required.

Contacts

Dr. Steven Thomas, sathomas16@ua.edu

Employment Type
Full-time
Job Location
Tuscaloosa, AL
Date posted
October 21, 2023
Valid through
December 1, 2023
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