Assistant Professor of Biology - Human Anatomy & Physiology

Assistant Professor of Biology - Human Anatomy & Physiology

The Department of Biology at Pacific Lutheran University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor beginning September 1, 2027. The successful applicant will have an expertise in teaching human anatomy and physiology. The position carries a teaching load of 6 courses per year with both lecture and lab sections counting toward that total. The individual's annual teaching responsibilities will include participation in the human anatomy and physiology sequence, including the use of cadaveric specimens.

In addition, the successful candidate will teach small, engaging upper-division courses in anatomy and/or physiology and will have the opportunity to develop courses aligned with their areas of expertise. We also seek a candidate who will maintain an active scholarship program that complements and broadens the department's existing strengths while providing opportunities for undergraduate student participation. Scholarship may include disciplinary research, pedagogical research, or other scholarly activities appropriate to the candidate's area of expertise.

Interdisciplinary collaborations with other academic units, including Kinesiology, are welcomed.

The biology department is a vibrant, student-centered academic community committed to helping students understand the complexity and diversity of life while developing the skills to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and engage in scientific discovery. Our faculty represent a broad range of biological disciplines, including molecular and cellular biology, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, developmental biology, ecology, and evolution. We emphasize learning biology by doing biology, with hands-on laboratory and field experiences, undergraduate research, and close faculty-student mentoring woven throughout the curriculum.

Our students pursue diverse pathways into health professions, graduate and professional programs, research, environmental science, education, and other careers in the life sciences.

We are looking for an individual who identifies first and foremost as an educator and is dedicated to using effective and inclusive teaching methods and practices. Our students come from various backgrounds with different values and beliefs. Many of them are first-generation college students, non-traditional students, students of color, and LGBTQ students. We particularly welcome applications from individuals who can facilitate discussions across diverse perspectives and who share our commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity in their teaching approaches.

Essential functions and responsibilities include teaching assigned courses at the undergraduate level, engaging undergraduates in their scholarship, holding regular student hours, and attending regular department meetings.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities include a strong background in anatomy and physiology, knowledge of effective and inclusive teaching and learning strategies, commitment to working effectively with a diverse faculty and student body, demonstrated enthusiasm for teaching at the undergraduate level within a liberal arts setting, and ability to communicate effectively.

Required qualifications include a Ph.D. in biology or related field. ABD will be considered, but Ph.D. must be in hand by September 1, 2027. The applicant must be legally eligible to work in the United States on hire date and legally authorized to work in the United States for Pacific Lutheran University without sponsorship.

Preferred qualifications include experience working with cadavers.