Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Description

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry (Department) at Washington and Lee University (W&L) seeks to hire a full-time Visiting Assistant Professor to teach a six -course load. These courses will include sections of both lecture and lab in our 1-term General Chemistry course in both the fall and winter terms. In addition, the candidate also will teach one section of an upper-level course consistent with the expertise of the candidate. The one-year position starts July 1st, 2026 and requires a Ph.D. in Chemistry or Biochemistry (ABD Ph.D. candidates will be considered). Previous teaching experience is highly desirable. The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching a six-course load and may have access to institutional resources to engage students with undergraduate research.

Washington and Lee University promotes a dynamic and welcoming environment that allows students and employees of multiple backgrounds and perspectives to learn, work, and thrive together. Successful candidates will contribute to that environment and exhibit potential for excellence in teaching and for vigorous scholarship. We welcome applications from candidates that would contribute to the University’s mission and Strategic Plan.

W&L is a highly selective, independent, co-educational liberal arts college of approximately 1900 undergraduate students located in Lexington, VA, three hours southwest of Washington, DC. W&L is annually ranked among the top 25 national liberal arts colleges, and the Department has ACS-certified programs in both chemistry and biochemistry. The successful candidate should expect to gain valuable experience working at a primarily undergraduate institution (PUI) in a department committed to furthering the intellectual vibrancy and diversity of our academic community. 

Qualifications

A Ph.D. in Chemistry or a closely related field is preferred. ABD Ph.D. candidates will also be considered. Teaching experience is highly desirable.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit the following materials:

1. a cover letter that summarizes current scholarship, identifies plans for future scholarship, discusses teaching interests and experience, and demonstrates ability to work effectively with students from a range of backgrounds and experiences;
2. a current curriculum vitae;
3. graduate and undergraduate transcripts;
4. a one- to two-page statement of teaching philosophy;
5. a one- to two-page research statement;
6. three confidential letters of recommendation.

All materials are to be submitted through Interfolio at https://apply.interfolio.com/183180 . Review of applications will begin April 2, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.

If you have questions about the position, please contact Dr. Lisa Alty, Chair of the Search Committee in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at altyl@wlu.edu.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Washington and Lee is an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking candidates committed to high standards of scholarship, performance, professionalism, and to a welcoming campus community. Job description requirements are representative, but not all‐inclusive of the knowledge, skill, and abilities needed to successfully perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.