Tenure-track Assistant Professor of Synthetic Biology/ Biotechnology- Dept of Biological Sciences

University of Illinois Chicago•Chicago, IL

20d•$100,000 - $120,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Illinois Chicago invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Synthetic Biology. The department seeks creative and innovative candidates who use molecular, genetic, biochemical, structural, computational, and/or cellular approaches to study and engineer biological systems. Research may use a broad range of experimental platforms and organisms, from in vitro systems to microorganisms, plants, and animals. Areas of interest include synthetic gene circuits and regulatory networks, genome engineering, metabolic engineering, engineered cellular systems, protein and RNA engineering, in vitro and cell-free systems, protein and macromolecular design, and machine-learning- and AI-driven approaches. Research applying fundamental biological processes to design new biological systems and functions is of particular interest, including engineering gene expression, protein synthesis, and biomolecule production. All scales of analysis and research will be considered. Researchers using synthetic biology to address evolutionary questions connected to departmental strengths are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will establish a vigorous, independent research program supported by external funding and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in graduate and undergraduate teaching and mentoring. The role includes teaching biochemistry or related topics to UIC students, guiding students in research, and contributing to departmental and university service. The position is based in Chicago, Illinois. The budgeted salary range is $100,000 to $120,000, with salary commensurate with qualifications and experience and consideration of internal equity. The position is intended to be eligible for benefits, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, a retirement plan, paid time off, and tuition waivers for employees and dependents. Applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, research plan of up to three pages, one-page teaching philosophy statement, and names and contact information for at least three references. Applications should be submitted by December 18, 2026. Review begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. Final authorization is subject to funding availability. AI tools may be used in portions of candidate review, but employment decisions will be made by a person.

Requirements

PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant discipline.
Relevant postdoctoral or equivalent research experience.
Strong record of research accomplishments.
Commitment to excellence in graduate and undergraduate teaching and mentoring.

Nice To Haves

Research that connects synthetic biology and evolutionary questions with departmental strengths in ecology and evolution, molecular, cell and developmental biology, or neurobiology.

Responsibilities

Establish an active, vigorous, independent research program using experimental and/or computational approaches to design or synthesize biological molecules, pathways, or systems, advancing technologies or elucidating foundational biological principles.
Seek external funding to support the research program.
Teach biochemistry or related topics to undergraduate and graduate students in Biological Sciences.
Guide students in research and mentoring.
Participate in the intellectual life of the university.
Provide service to the Department and University, including committee work, seminar coordination, policy review, mentorship, or other service activities.
Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.