Faculty - Assistant Professor Bioinformatics​/Organismal focus

Overview

The Department of Biology at Utah Valley University invites applications for an open‑rank tenure‑track faculty position, to begin in August 2026. We seek an outstanding candidate with a background in bioinformatics and organismal focus.

UVU is committed to preparing all students for success in an increasingly complex, diverse, and globalized society. We value and promote collegial relationships and mutual respect among students, faculty, staff, and the community. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds who are eager to help construct and maintain a welcoming culture within biology education and research, and who act with resolute commitment to eliminate barriers to college access, success, and completion.

The successful candidate should demonstrate a strong commitment to effective teaching utilizing engaging, data‑driven pedagogies. Teaching responsibilities for this position include:

• Data Analysis for Biologists (BIOL 3100)
• Bioinformatic Data Skills (BIOL 3150)
• Introductory Biology Courses (BIOL 1010, 1610, or 1620)

Additionally, candidates may be asked to teach other courses as needed by the department and may develop new courses within their area of expertise. Applicants with experience and interest in teaching hybrid and/or online instruction are especially encouraged to apply.

In addition, the candidate should demonstrate their ability to establish an active and welcoming research program that centers around the active mentoring of undergraduates and leads to peer‑reviewed publications. Successful candidates will have a background in bioinformatics, particularly skills in R and bash coding, use of supercomputing clusters. Preference will be given to candidates with research experience in organismal biology, such as Mycology, Botany, or Zoology.

• Graduation from an accredited institution with a doctorate in bioinformatics or related biological discipline required.
• Evidence of experience teaching bioinformatics to undergraduate students.
• ABD applications will be considered if doctorate verification is received by July 31, 2026.
• Strong knowledge of active learning pedagogies and an established record of incorporation of those techniques in the classroom (especially in bioinformatics).
• Experience or strategies for teaching at open‑enrollment institutions.
• Publication record that indicates successful use of bioinformatics and mentorship of undergraduates.
• Experience in, and/or commitment to, hybrid and online instruction.

• CV
• Cover letter
• Teaching philosophy—Explanation and justification of teaching practices including statements on applying evidence‑based methods for providing an engaging and welcoming learning environment.
• Research statement—Statement that includes a plan for a research program incorporating undergraduates and addresses the feasibility of that research program at a primarily undergraduate institution. In addition, statement should address how mentor creates a welcoming and engaging research environment.
• Experience and/or training in engaging and welcoming teaching and mentoring practices.
• Demonstrable knowledge of the theory and practice of bioinformatics and research methods in the field of organismal biology.
• A record of incorporating evidence‑based pedagogy, such as active‑learning techniques, and innovative use of instructional technology in the classroom.
• A record of curriculum development, effective verbal and written communication, and the ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students.
• The ability, desire, and skills to mentor undergraduate student research.