Department Head, Biological Sciences - 520645

Department/Organization
204411 - Biological Sciences

Rank
Associate/Full Professor

Position Summary
The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, invites applications for Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences.

Detailed Position Information
The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, invites applications for Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences. Applicants must have a Ph.D. and obtained the rank of Associate or Full Professor at their current institution. Evidence of significant intellectual contributions to their field of research, a strong record of publication and extramural funding, and a demonstrated commitment to teaching in a biological sciences department at both the undergraduate and graduate level are required. The successful candidate is also expected to foster, lead, and manage an integrative department with consideration of institute policies and procedures. The successful candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to the promotion of diversity and inclusion among faculty, staff, and students. While no defined research focus is required for the position, the successful candidate’s expertise should complement and advance existing research within the department and university. Candidates with prestigious achievements in their field and exceptional national and international reputations will be eligible for consideration for significant endowment support through appointment as a Shelby Distinguished Professor https://provost.ua.edu/Shelby/

The Department of Biological Sciences has approximately 1,800 undergraduate students pursuing BS degrees in biology, microbiology, and marine science. In addition, the department has approximately 130 graduate students enrolled in Biology MA and MS, Marine Biology MS, and Biology PhD programs.

Minimum Qualifications
Applicants must have a Ph.D. and obtained the rank of Associate or Full Professor at their current institution. Evidence of significant intellectual contributions to their field of research, a strong record of publication and extramural funding, and a demonstrated commitment to teaching in a biological sciences department at both the undergraduate and graduate level are required.

Preferred Qualifications
The successful candidate is also expected to foster, lead, and manage an integrative department with consideration of institute policies and procedures. The successful candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to the promotion of diversity and inclusion among faculty, staff, and students. While no defined research focus is required for the position, the successful candidate’s expertise should complement and advance existing research within the department and university.

Instructions and Required Materials for Application
Questions about the position should be addressed to the chair of the search committee, Dr. Steven Thomas ([email protected] ). To apply, go to https://careers.ua.edu/jobs/search/AS , complete the online application (https://careers.ua.edu/jobs/search/AS) , and upload: (1) a cover letter; (2) a CV; (3) a three-page statement describing your past administrative experience, your approach to departmental management, and vision for the department; (4) a three-page statement describing past research achievements and future goals; (5) a one-page statement of teaching interests and philosophy; (6) a one-page statement on the ways in which issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion has shaped your approach to teaching, research, and service; and (7) a list of three to five references (including contact information). The search committee will request letters of reference as needed. Consideration of applications will begin December 1st, 2023, and will continue until the position is filled. Before hiring, the final candidate must pass a pre-employment background check. The start date is August 16, 2024. Additional information about the Department of Biological Sciences and this position can be found on our website at http://bsc.ua.edu .

About the Division/College/School
The College of Arts and Sciences at The University of Alabama offers an exciting and dynamic environment for faculty seeking to make an impact in their field and in the lives of the innovators and changemakers of tomorrow.

As the largest college at The University, we house over 8000 students and 1000 faculty and staff across our 25 departments.

With nationally recognized programs and award-winning faculty, our College has positioned itself as a leader in higher education. Our facilities and resources include state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and performance venues, providing students with hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for research and creative expression.

The College is committed to the liberal arts philosophy that fosters creative and critical thinking and a lifetime of learning.

About the University
The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. UA shapes a better world through its teaching, research and service. With a global reputation for excellence, UA provides an inclusive, forward-thinking environment and nearly 200 degree programs on a beautiful, student-centered campus.

A leader in cutting-edge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers. The University of Alabama has R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity status by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education and is among the top doctoral research universities in the United States.

As the state’s largest higher education institution, UA drives economic growth in Alabama and beyond.

About Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa is so much more than a college town.

It's a vibrant community that’s filled with legendary history. Located along the Black Warrior River, the city features a walkable downtown that’s complete with live music, locally owned shops, outdoor spaces to explore and local restaurants to meet every palate. With a geography ranging from suburban to rural, the area offers a variety of housing options along with excellent public and private schools and a wealth of recreational and entertainment options.

With a metro area population of 235,000, the Druid City lies about an hour southwest of Birmingham, in west-central Alabama. It’s within a few hours’ drive of Gulf Coast beaches and major cities like Nashville, New Orleans and Atlanta, making it a great base for growing better acquainted with the South’s finest offerings.

Background Investigation and EEO Statement
Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants to and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. Follow the link below to find out more. "EEO is the Law" https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/migrated_files/employers/poster_screen_reader_optimized.pdf