Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology - Vertebrate Biology

Position Summary:

The Biology Department at Adams State University announces a visiting assistant professor position for 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, Ecology, Comparative Anatomy, and Conservation Biology. Participation in General Biology, general education science courses, or First Year Seminar commensurate with the needs of the Department may also be required. While we are primarily an institution focused on teaching excellence and the teaching load for this position is 12 credit-hours each semester, visiting faculty are encouraged to participate in professional development and department meetings. 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, and (2) a commitment to furthering the university’s mission of Inclusive Excellence. 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. 

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Biology with a background in one or more of the areas listed above; ABD with expected completion date within 6 months of employment.
• Capability to deliver high-quality undergraduate instruction, including use of high-impact and culturally relevant practices
• Demonstrates 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.

 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching at the undergraduate level.
• Commitment to undergraduate laboratory and field-based instruction.
• Experience using a variety of delivery methods for teaching, including the use of inclusive pedagogies.
• 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.

Salary and Benefits:

The salary range for this position is $55,000-$59,000.  In addition to salary, Adams State University offers a competitive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, and retirement savings plans. For detailed benefits information please visit our Human Resources Benefits Page. 

How to