Assistant/Associate Professor of Biology - Vertebrate Biology

Adams State University•Alamosa, CO

8d•$52,320 - $67,200

About The Position

Position Summary: The Biology Department at Adams State University invites applicants for a tenure-track assistant or associate professor position in biology. We are seeking a broadly trained vertebrate biologist to join an engaged and vibrant faculty committed to excellence in undergraduate education. Responsibilities include teaching upper-division lecture and laboratory courses in the following areas: Mammalogy, Ornithology, Evolution, Wildlife Management, Comparative Anatomy, and/or Conservation Biology. Participation in General Biology, general education science courses, or other core biology courses may also be required. While we are primarily a teaching-focused institution, tenure-track faculty are expected to conduct scholarly or creative activity and maintain currency in their field. The ability to involve undergraduate students in research is valued. Service to the department, university, and/or community is also expected. With small class sizes, a diverse student population, and opportunities for one-on-one mentoring, our campus environment lends itself well to those who are interested in being a positive influence in the lives of students. Candidates should demonstrate that they possess (1) a commitment to student-centered instruction, 2) a knowledge of or willingness to develop skills in high-impact and inclusive pedagogy in the context of biology education, and 3) a plan for conducting research/scholarly activity at primarily undergraduate institution. The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with diverse faculty, staff, and students within the School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics and across campus. Mission of the Department The biology program provides an inclusive and empowering education that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. We support and inspire students in their pursuit of scientific excellence through innovative teaching, research, and community engagement. We are committed to creating a diverse community of scholars who will lead with compassion, innovation, and a commitment to advancing both science and social equity. We recognize that women and people of color are often less likely to apply to a position if they don’t match 100% of the job qualifications. Don’t let that be the reason you miss out on this opportunity! We encourage you to apply if you can demonstrate many of these skills and competencies.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Biology with a background in one or more of the areas listed above; or ABD with expected completion date within 6 months of employment.
Demonstrated commitment to excellence in in undergraduate teaching and student-centered learning.
Knowledge of, sensitivity to, and ability to work effectively with, the educational needs of individuals and groups with a diverse range of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities
Evidence of responsiveness to and understanding of the racial, socioeconomic, academic, and cultural diversity of Adams State University’s student population, including students with different abilities (e.g. physical and or learning) as these factors relate to the need for equity-minded, inclusive practices within the classroom
Demonstrated commitment to honesty, efficacy, and collaboration.

Nice To Haves

Experience teaching at the undergraduate level.
Commitment to undergraduate inquiry-based laboratory and field-based instruction
Ability or experience working with historically under-served and/or underrepresented populations, and first-generation college students.
Ability or experience in the recruitment and/or retention of underrepresented students, including students of color.
Commitment to professional development, scholarship, and service to the university and community.
Demonstrated self-awareness of one's own cultural beliefs, perspectives, and privileges as a part of one's orientation towards teaching.
Demonstrated decision-making that is informed by research, data, and theory and that leverages students' unique cultures, experiences, and background as strengths.

Responsibilities

Teaching upper-division lecture and laboratory courses in Mammalogy, Ornithology, Evolution, Wildlife Management, Comparative Anatomy, and/or Conservation Biology.
Participation in General Biology, general education science courses, or other core biology courses may also be required.
Conduct scholarly or creative activity and maintain currency in their field.
Involve undergraduate students in research.
Service to the department, university, and/or community is also expected.