Assistant/Associate Professor of Biotechnology

Bethune-Cookman University

Job Title: Assistant/Associate Professor of Biotechnology

Division: College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics, Department of Natural Sciences

Reporting Structure: 1) Chair of the Department of Natural Sciences; 2) Dean of the College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics; and 3) Provost/Vice President of Academic Affairs

Job Summary: The Department of Natural Sciences is seeking applicants for a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant/Associate professor in Biology, with a focus on Biotechnology. This position presents an exciting opportunity for a scholar whose research and teaching interests lie at the intersection of molecular biology, genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and applied sciences, contributing to a growing emphasis on biotechnological advancements and their real-world applications.

The candidate will teach upper-division undergraduate & graduate lecture/laboratory courses in Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology, as well as contribute to foundational courses and other courses as needed by the College of Science, Engineering, & Mathematics. These courses serve nine-degree programs, including our B.S. in Biology, B.S. in Chemistry, B.S. in Integrated Environmental Science, M.A. in Medicinal Chemistry, and M.S. in Biotechnology. The successful applicant must be capable of and committed to effective teaching, program-level assessment of student learning, and working with diverse populations.

Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) is a historically black college or university (HBCU) that seeks avid scholars dedicated to excellence in teaching and research as well as the continued enhancement of the academic environment for students and colleagues. Founded by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in 1904, B-CU is a United Methodist Church-related university offering baccalaureate and master''s degrees. The University has deep roots in the history of America and continues to provide services to the broader community through a focus on service learning and civic engagement. Bethune-Cookman University accomplishes its mission by providing quality instruction in an intellectually stimulating environment that nurtures the mind (intellect), the heart (transformative leadership), and the hand (service learning) according to our founder''s motto and the institution''s seal.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in biotechnology, molecular biology, bioengineering, and related disciplines using innovative, student-centered pedagogical approaches.
• Develop and maintain a productive, externally funded research program that actively engages undergraduate and graduate students in laboratory and/or field-based research.
• Contribute to curriculum development, program assessment, and continuous improvement of academic programs within the Department and College.
• Advise and mentor students, supporting their academic, professional, and research development.
• Participate in departmental, college, and university service, including committee work and community engagement activities.
• Collaborate with faculty across disciplines to support interdisciplinary teaching and research initiatives.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to teach effectively in biotechnology, molecular biology, and related areas.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse student populations.
• Experience with program-level assessment of student learning outcomes.
• Commitment to student-centered, inquiry-based, and experiential learning approaches.
• Familiarity with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas, Moodle) and instructional technologies.
• Ability to contribute to a collaborative, inclusive, and dynamic academic environment.
• Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching, as evidenced through interview and/or teaching demonstration.

Education and Experience: A minimum of a masters degree in a relevant Biological Science is required, but a Ph.D. is preferred.

Preferred Skills, Experience, and Education:

Physical Requirements: The candidate must be able to handle minor tasks associated with their position and be versed in maintaining safety regulations in laboratory environments.

The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, retaliation, marital status, religion or disability, or any other applicable local, state, or federal regulation. Inquiries regarding provisions for persons with disabilities, equal employment opportunity, and Title IX matters should be directed to the Office of Human Resources at 386-481-2049.

The university reserves the right to modify job descriptions at any time in its attempts to improve the operations of the university