Assistant Teaching Professor or Instructor of Forensic Science

Assistant Teaching Professor or Instructor of Forensic Science

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Teaching Professor or Instructor of Forensic Science.

Location:

Hattiesburg

118 College Drive, Hattiesburg, Mississippi , United States

Division:
School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, and Security

Position Type:
Faculty

Employment Status:
Full Time

Grant Funded:
No

Pay Grade:
Generic Grade

Posting Close Date:
Open Until Filled

Applicants must complete an online application along with a letter of interest, statement of teaching philosophy and goals, current vita, and contact information for at least three professional references. To receive priority consideration, applications must be received by December 1, 2025. Official transcripts will be required prior to a campus interview. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis without the need for visa sponsorship.

The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H‑1B). Direct inquiries to:
Richard Swearengin, Search Committee Chair, School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security, 118 College Drive # 5127, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, richard.swearengin.

The School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, and Security at The University of Southern Mississippi invites applications for a full‑time, non‑tenure‑track Assistant Teaching Professor or Instructor of Forensic Science to begin in Fall 2026. The teaching load for the position is four classes per semester (Fall and Spring). The School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Security (CJFSS) is an interdisciplinary school that offers undergraduate degrees in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, and Criminal Justice, as well as an undergraduate minor in Security Studies.

The school also offers a graduate program in Criminal Justice. The Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Biology, and Forensic Chemistry degree programs educate students on the various forensic techniques used in the field and in laboratory settings. During their course of study, students can pursue coursework and laboratory experience in drug identification, serology and DNA, fingerprint analysis, crime scene documentation, firearms identification, arson and explosives investigation, and much more.

• Teaching, advising and mentoring students at the university level.
• Online and face‑to‑face course delivery and instruction.
• Preparing and submitting syllabi, grades, and other required course documentation in a timely manner.
• Engaging in scholarly and service activities commensurate with university, college, and school expectations.
• Attending school, college and university meetings and recruitment events.
• Organizing and managing laboratory activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Master’s degree in Forensic Science or closely related discipline from an accredited university.

• Specialized knowledge in the field of forensic science as demonstrated through graduate‑level coursework and/or professional experience.
• Ability to teach effectively (both online and in traditional settings) at the university level in an undergraduate forensic science degree program.
• Ability to articulate concepts and instructions effectively to students.
• Ability to effectively engage in scholarly and service activities.
• Ability to effectively advise and mentor students.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

At least five years of professional experience in forensic science, criminal justice, public safety, or related field.

Expertise and ability to teach in two or more of the following areas: forensic quality management, survey of forensic science, introduction to forensic science, crime scene documentation, fingerprint analysis, forensic photography, digital forensics, firearms identification, arson and fire investigations, accident reconstruction, crime scene reconstruction, shooting reconstruction, bloodstain…