RANK Faculty Position in Theoretical Biology

Oct 05, 2026

The Department of Biological Sciences seeks an outstanding individual for an open rank faculty position in Theoretical Biology. Theory guides experimental biology by bridging conceptual gaps and distilling signal from distracting biological noise into elegant frameworks, facilitating discovery of new fundamental rules of life. We are thus seeking a faculty member who can use the toolboxes of theoretical biology and applied mathematics to develop an independent and rigorous research program in areas such as evolutionary biology, ecology, epidemiology, genetics, neuroscience or cell and molecular biology.

The successful candidate will be expected to help recruit, teach, and train a robust cohort of undergraduate and graduate students in quantitative biology, collaborate synergistically with other faculty at Vanderbilt, and contribute to the distinction of the University.

Applicants must have earned a Ph.D., no later than August 1, 2026, and preferably have one or more years of postdoctoral research experience. Top candidates will demonstrate excellence in research, highly effective teaching and mentoring to undergraduate and graduate students, and a desire to contribute to a collaborative academic community.

Vanderbilt University shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.