Assistant Professor, Legal Studies

Florida Gulf Coast University•Lexington, MA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

As Assistant Professor of Legal Studies, you will teach at both undergraduate and graduate levels, as applicable; be involved in course and/or curriculum development; conduct research/scholarship; participate in Department, Program, College and University committees and/or initiatives; and perform other duties as assigned. This position requires a scholar practitioner with a strong grounding in legal practice, legal reasoning, and applied legal education. A history of publication or potential for publication in a developing area of expertise is necessary. The successful candidate will interface with Criminal Justice and Forensic Studies, contribute to interdisciplinary programming, and participate in mock trials, moot court, and courtroom based simulations from a Legal Studies perspective. Teaching assignments may be on the main campus or at off campus sites within the region. Florida Gulf Coast University is a comprehensive university dedicated to quality education, research, and service. All faculty are expected to: be excellent teachers, responsive to changing professional needs; be committed to innovative delivery of instruction resulting in improved student learning; be committed to effective use of technology including distance learning; produce peer reviewed scholarship; and provide service to the College, University and Community. Teaching assignments may be on the main campus or at off-campus sites within our region. FGCU is building a culture of curiosity, commitment and collaboration. We value employees who successfully work with others and drive positive change through critical thinking and decisive action. If you thrive in an environment of innovation, accountability and mutual respect, you will find a good home here.

Requirements

A Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent accreditation.
Currently licensed to practice law in the State of Florida
Experience in the legal foundations governing forensic evidence, including admissibility, authentication, chain of custody, and expert testimony.
Professional or practitioner experience integrating legal practice with applied forensic analysis, courtroom advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration with Criminal Justice and Forensic Studies.

Nice To Haves

Professional legal practice experience involving forensic evidence, expert testimony, or litigation of forensic issues.
A solid record of legal research and writing skills as demonstrated through work history, and/or a list of scholarly publications is highly desirable.
Experience collaborating with Criminal Justice and Forensic Studies faculty and students on interdisciplinary programming.

Responsibilities

Plans, prepares, and teaches assigned courses, including developing syllabi, instructional materials, and assessments.
Delivers consistent, interactive, and engaging lectures aligned with curriculum goals and accreditation standards.
Maintains the highest standards of classroom instruction and engages in reflective self-assessment to ensure continuous improvement.
Holds regular office hours and provides academic advising and individual support to students.
Utilizes the University's learning management system and other instructional technologies effectively.
Collaborates with departmental faculty on curriculum development and program advancement.
Ensures curriculum outcomes and accreditation standards are met.
Establishes and maintains an active research program, including opportunities for undergraduate student involvement.
Demonstrates evidence of scholarly publication and grantsmanship.
Engages in continued professional development and maintains professional skills appropriate to rank and field.
Actively participates in departmental, college, and university committees and meetings.
Contributes to community, institutional, and professional service in support of the University’s mission.
Participates in faculty evaluation, student learning assessment, and required training activities.
Communicates professionally and in a timely manner with students, colleagues, staff, and administrators.
Upholds the highest standards of integrity, responsibility, and excellence in all professional activities.
Complies with University policies, procedures, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Performs other duties as assigned.