Working/Functional Title

Inst/Ast Prof - Fixed Term

Position Summary

Position Overview:

The Department of Integrative Biology at Michigan State University invites applications for a full-time, 9-month, fixed-term instructor position commencing on August 16, 2024. The position is initially offered for a two-year term, with renewal contingent on satisfactory performance reviews and the availability of funding.  Subject to these conditions, there is potential for the role to be extended beyond the initial term. The selected candidate will play a key role in delivering Integrative Biology 341: Fundamental Genetics, alongside a dedicated team of faculty and graduate teaching assistants. In addition, the candidate will be required to teach at least one other core Integrative Biology course (as detailed below). The selected candidate will also actively participate in collaborative endeavors with faculty members engaged in enhancing undergraduate STEM education at MSU.

Core Courses Overview:

• Fundamental Genetics: Covers prokaryotic and eukaryotic genetics, genome biology, population and evolutionary genetics, and modern biotechnologies and genomics applications.
• Evolution: Explores evolutionary processes in animals, plants, and microbes, encompassing population genetics, microevolution, speciation, adaptive radiation, macroevolution, and the origins of Homo sapiens.
• Ecology: Delves into the interrelationships of organisms with their environment, addressing principles of population, community, and ecosystem ecology, and their relevance to global sustainability.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate

Minimum Requirements

• Ph.D. (ABD considered*) in biology or a related field.
• Undergraduate teaching experience.
• Commitment to fostering student success and inclusivity in a diverse learning environment.
• Proficiency in student-centered, active, and inquiry-based learning methodologies.
• Experience in student learning assessment.
• Dedication to professional development.
• Excellent collaboration and interpersonal communication skills.

*Note: To be appointed at the rank of Instructor, candidates must have achieved at least ABD status. For the rank of Assistant Professor (fixed-term), a Ph.D. must be earned prior to the appointment start date.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in upper-level undergraduate teaching, instructional technology, and online learning.
• Engagement in collaborative instruction, such as co-instruction, group curriculum, or assessment design projects.
• Experience in handling large classes.

Required Application Materials

Applicants are to submit the following documents in a single PDF:

Curriculum Vitae.

Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) detailing your background in genetics, ecology, evolution, teaching experience, and professional development activities.

DEI Statement (1 page) summarizing your past or intended contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in teaching.

Assessment Example (max. 1 page) showcasing a genetics assessment with the associated learning objective.

Description of Student-centered Teaching Methods and Collaborative Work (max. 2 pages) indicating your utilization of student-centered teaching methods and collaborative work experiences.

Contact information for three profe