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Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences (Comparative Vertebrate Physiology)

The Department of Biological Sciences invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Comparative Vertebrate Physiology. We seek a dedicated teacher-scientist with broad training in integrative and comparative vertebrate physiology who is enthusiastic about undergraduate education and committed to student success at a comprehensive, primarily undergraduate university.

Primary Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate lecture and laboratory courses in comparative vertebrate physiology.
• Contribute to the broader biology curriculum, including introductory courses for majors, courses for non-majors, and upper-division courses aligned with the candidate's expertise (e.g., embryology, cellular and molecular biology, endocrinology).
• Advise and mentor undergraduate students.
• Engage in curriculum development, including the potential development of new courses consistent with departmental needs and candidate strengths.
• Develop and maintain an active research program.
• Participate in departmental, college, and university service.
• Employ teaching practices that promote student engagement, academic access, and success across a diverse student population.

Teaching Expectations

Teaching proficiency is the primary criterion for retention, tenure, and promotion in the Department of Biological Sciences. Candidates should demonstrate evidence of effective and reflective undergraduate teaching, a commitment to continuous improvement, and the ability to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Experience with laboratory instruction is especially valued. The successful candidate will be expected to design, teach, and sustain high-quality laboratory experiences in comparative vertebrate physiology appropriate for undergraduate instruction.

Evidence of thoughtful course design, assessment of student learning, and meaningful engagement with students in both classroom and laboratory settings is highly desirable. The typical workload is approximately 80% teaching and 20% advising, service, and other professional responsibilities consistent with university policy. Reassigned time may be available based on scholarly productivity, external funding, significant service assignments, or programmatic needs. Opportunities are available to mentor students in the department's M.S. program.

Teaching graduate courses may be possible, depending on programmatic needs and the candidate's expertise.

Scholarship Expectations

Faculty are expected to develop a sustainable program of scholarship appropriate to a comprehensive university with a teaching-centered mission. The Department values disciplinary research in the life sciences as well as the scholarship of teaching and learning. Candidates should articulate a focused and feasible research agenda capable of producing peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations within the context of the workload. Successful programs often involve meaningful undergraduate participation and may emphasize projects that are scalable, collaborative, or otherwise well-aligned with institutional resources.

Experience seeking or obtaining extramural funding is viewed positively. External support that enhances student training or scholarly productivity is encouraged, though not required for success in the position.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in physiology, integrative biology, organismal biology, or a closely related field (ABD considered if degree is completed by the start date).
• Demonstrated expertise in comparative animal physiology appropriate for undergraduate lecture and laboratory instruction.
• Documented experience in undergraduate teaching, with evidence of commitment to and effectiveness in student learning.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching physiology at the undergraduate level.
• Broad training across vertebrate taxa.
• Experience mentoring undergraduate research or scholarly projects.
• Experience in curriculum development or assessment practices.

How to Apply

& Deadline

A complete application must include:

• Cover letter (maximum 500 words). A letter addressing your qualifications for the position, including your preparation in comparative vertebrate physiology and your interest in contributing to undergraduate education at Stanislaus State.
• Curriculum Vitae. A current professional curriculum vitae.
• References. The names and contact information of three references. (Three letters of recommendation will be required of finalists for the position.)
• Teaching Statement (maximum 1500 words, excluding captions and references). A statement describing your teaching philosophy, teaching-related activities and accomplishments, and plans for teaching at Stanislaus State. The statement should also address how you design learning environments that promote student engagement, access, and success in STEM fields, particularly in the context of a diverse student population. Applicants are encouraged to discuss how their…