Microbiology Department Tenure Track Assistant Professor Position in

Cellular and Molecular Microbiology

The faculty member in this position will seek to develop a nationally recognized research program in Cellular and Molecular Microbiology and make innovative, fundamental discoveries that contribute to holistic knowledge of microbial physiology and genetics. We are interested in a wide range of scientific endeavors including studies framed in the context of human, animal, environmental health or global change. Research endeavors that link to local strengths in microbial pathogenesis, microbiome research, and data science are encouraged. 

The primary responsibilities of this position are to establish and sustain an independent research program through external funding, publication of original and innovative research in peer-reviewed journals, teach and mentor graduate, professional, and undergraduate students, and provide institutional and professional service,  

This position is principally in the College of Science but may be shared with the College Agricultural Science if disciplinary focus and interdisciplinary collaboration is relevant. The aim for this position is to strengthen research and teaching in BioHealth Sciences and Microbiology, to strengthen OSU’s mission in creating and sustaining healthy communities and a healthy planet, and to increase the ability of the University to respond to the needs and concerns of an increasingly diverse student body. At OSU, we have an institution-wide commitment to diversity and multiculturalism, and we are intentional about providing a welcoming atmosphere and inclusive professional opportunities.

The Microbiology faculty consists of 11 tenure-track professors, 7 senior research professors, 4 instructors, and 5 advisors, and trains about 950 undergraduate majors (Microbiology and BioHealth Sciences) and 40 graduate students (Microbiology). Research interests encompass studies in the biology and pathogenesis of bacteria and viruses, microbial ecology and evolution, bioinformatics, microbial interactions, and environmental microbiology. For more information on Microbiology at Oregon State University see: https://microbiology.oregonstate.edu/.

The College of Science provides a core instructional role at OSU, supporting the ideals of learning, discovery, and engagement that are the foundation of a land-grant university. The College embraces instruction and research, in disciplines ranging from the physical to the biological sciences, that are based in unbiased inquiry and a dedication to discovery and innovation. The College of Science is committed to partnering with industry and public agencies to address some of the most compelling challenges of today and tomorrow.

The College of Agricultural Sciences is Oregon’s principal source of knowledge relating to agricultural and food systems, and a major source of knowledge regarding environmental quality, natural resources, life sciences, and rural economies and communities worldwide. The College’s areas of excellence are sustainable food systems, marine resources, environmental and human well-being, integrated systems biology and natural resource stewardship.

Both Colleges are the primary supporters of three of the university’s world-class research centers, namely the Linus Pauling Institute, the Environmental Health Sciences Center, and the Center for Quantitative Life Sciences.

 

Position Description

(45%) Scholarship and Research:

Maintain an externally funded research program conducting original and independent research and training in cellular or molecular microbiology. Aspire to achieve international standing in those endeavors. Publish the results of original research in peer-reviewed journals, reviews, technical reports, books, and other outlets. Present current research findings at regional, national, and international conferences and oversee graduate research presentations. 

(45%) Teaching, Advising, and other instructional duties:

Participate in undergraduate teaching in areas of expertise or other aspects of microbiological and biomedical sciences, including online education. Participate in the Microbiology or allied graduate teaching program in areas of expertise. Direct graduate students in their advanced degree programs. Direct undergraduate students in research projects and honors theses. Supervise personnel in conducting research at the undergraduate, graduate and/or postdoctoral levels.

(10%) Service:

Participate on graduate student committees in Microbiology and allied programs. Participate in committees and faculty governance at the unit level. Participate in committees or provide other service at the college or university level. Participate in service to the profession, such as reviewing journal manuscripts and grant proposals, serving professional organizations, organizing conferences.

 

Minimum/Required Qualifications*

• Ph.D. in Microbiology or related field.  Relevant postdoctoral or postgraduate experience.

• Demonstrable proficiency or significant potential to obtain external research funding. 

• Demonstrated ability to contribute to scholarly activities through refereed publications in, or relevant to, cellular or molecular microbiology. 

• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate cellular and molecular microbiology topics to varied audiences. 

• Evidence of teaching, engagement, or research efforts that minimize barriers or consider equity and inclusion concerns. 

• Tolerance for diverse ideas, including those different from one’s own.  

 

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant postdoctoral or post-graduate experience. 

• Demonstrable ability or significant potential for teaching excellence and commitment to student success that benefits the graduate and undergraduate students in microbiology and biohealth sciences. 

• Record of collaboration or cooperation within a team structure. 

• Effective written and oral communication skills. 
• Demonstrated potential for leadership in research, innovation, mentoring, and/or teaching.

 

Required Application Materials:

How the candidate has embedded the values of inclusive excellence and belonging into their past work experience, and how these values will be incorporated into their future professional life, should be captured throughout the application materials.

When applying you are required to attach the following electronic documents.

1) A current CV

2) A cover letter (up to 3 pages), which should:

• Indicate how you have met each of the minimum and required qualifications, and how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position.

• Include a statement on your philosophy to open-mindedness for diverse ideas within the academy including those different from your own. This statement should also include a commitment to free inquiry based on evidence and criticism. These statements must be included for your application to be considered for the position.

3) A statement of current and proposed research interests (up to 3 pages)

4) A statement of teaching philosophy, experience, and interests (up to 2 pages).

5) Names, email addresses, and telephone numbers of three referees.

For additional information please contact:
 

Dr. Kimberly Halsey

halseyk@oregonstate.edu

(541) 737-1833 or (541) 737-1831

OSU commits to inclusive excellence by advancing equity and diversity in all that we do. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, and particularly encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ community members, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.