Assistant/Associate Professor of Biology - Plant Biology or Botany

UNIVERSITY OF LYNCHBURG•Lynchburg, VA

39d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Lynchburg, a private, regional university in the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Central Virginia, is seeking applicants for a 3-year Assistant or Associate Professor position in botany or plant biology beginning in the 2026-27 academic year with the possibility for renewal or conversion to tenure-track. The candidate should demonstrate exceptional potential as a teacher and scholar who can contribute to our undergraduate programs and complement existing departmental strengths. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in plant biology and will be able to teach a 200-level course in plant biology, departmentally-designed courses in the major including the introductory series and genetics, and courses in the candidate’s area of expertise. In addition, candidates should be able to mentor students in undergraduate research projects. We seek an individual who is eager to engage in a vibrant, student-centered, collaborative environment that fosters engagement with students, colleagues, and alumni. The Biology Department attracts a diverse array of students, maintains small class sizes, and provides intentional support throughout the students’ time on campus. New students participate in a faculty-student retreat; we host multiple student engagement social events throughout the year; we connect with current and former students at annual university events; and we host an annual senior celebration. The successful candidate will additionally serve as Curator of the historic Ramsey-Freer Herbarium housed at Claytor Nature Center, the University’s 500-acre field station. Experience with herbarium curation is not required, but the candidate must be willing to learn to fulfill this role. The ideal candidate will be organized, demonstrate attention to detail, be responsive to requests for specimens, and will be an effective communicator. Candidates will have the opportunity to take advantage of resources provided by the Teaching and Learning Center for AI Excellence and the Percy Wootton Research Center and will be eligible to apply for internal funds to support travel, scholarly work, faculty-student research, and professional development.

Requirements

A PhD in biology, plant biology, botany, or related discipline is required by the start date.
A primary interest in teaching and mentoring undergraduate research at a liberal arts institution is a must.
A valid driver’s license is required by the start date.

Nice To Haves

Previous teaching experience is desired.
Experience with herbarium curation is not required, but the candidate must be willing to learn to fulfill this role.
The ideal candidate will be organized, demonstrate attention to detail, be responsive to requests for specimens, and will be an effective communicator.

Responsibilities

Teaching
Collaborating with colleagues on curriculum development
Supervising student research projects
Service to the University and community
Engaging in scholarly activity
Curation of the Ramsey-Freer Herbarium at Claytor Nature Center in Bedford, VA
Herbarium Curator responsibilities include preservation, maintenance, digital curation, and distribution of herbarium specimens.