Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences

The Biological Sciences Department at Wellesley College invites applications for a tenure-track position in terrestrial ecology at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin in Fall 2025. We seek a broadly trained ecologist who is strongly committed to excellence in both teaching and research in an undergraduate liberal arts college environment. The position is open to candidates with a research focus in any area of terrestrial ecology. A Ph.D. is required at the time of application. Candidates will develop an active and productive research program that involves Wellesley undergraduates. A competitive start-up package will be provided. Candidates will be expected to teach the equivalent of four courses per year within the Biological Sciences curriculum. This will include introductory organismal biology and a mid-level ecology course. In addition, a successful candidate will develop and offer an advanced course in their specialty. We welcome candidates with familiarity and/or experience with innovative STEM pedagogy. 

A special strength of Wellesley is our diverse student body: 64% of the class of 2027 identify as students of color; students come from all 46 states plus DC, Guam, and Puerto Rico and 33 countries; 23% identify as first-generation college students; and almost 60% of our students receive financial aid. The Biological Sciences department is devoted to improving equity and enhancing student experiences of community, engagement, and belonging. We believe that diversity is central to intellectual growth and development. We are committed to embracing and supporting the identities, abilities, life experiences, and aspirations of every member of our community. Candidates with demonstrated commitment to and familiarity with inclusive pedagogies are strongly encouraged to apply. We are especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through their research, teaching, and service. 

Review of applications will begin on September 15, 2024. Applications should be submitted via our application web site https://www.wellesley.edu/about-us/working-at-wellesley and include 1) a cover letter,  2) curriculum vitae, 3) a statement of teaching experience and interests, which should include plans for inclusive pedagogical practices, 4) a statement of research accomplishments and plans for the future including the incorporation of undergraduates, and 5) three letters of recommendation, submitted confidentially through our online application system. Individually, the three letters of recommendation can be from any prior or current component of the candidate’s education or experience, but collectively, they should explicitly speak to the candidate’s promise for both successful teaching and research. We invite applicants to speak explicitly about their efforts towards diversity, equity, and inclusion in whatever manner is most appropriate for them within their application package.

First-round interviews will be held on Zoom in early to mid-October with campus visits in late October and November. Questions should be directed to the Biological Sciences Department search co-chairs, Louise Darling (ldarling@wellesley.edu) and Kaye Peterman (kpeterma@wellesley.edu). If circumstances make it impossible to submit materials online, please email us at working@wellesley.edu.

Wellesley College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to Inclusive Excellence, and we encourage persons of all genders, persons of color, and persons with disabilities to apply. The college is committed to enriching its educational experience and its culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration, and staff. Candidates who believe they can contribute to that goal are encouraged to apply.