Assistant Professor of Biology

The Department of Biology at Pacific Lutheran University invites applications for a faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor beginning September 1, 2025. The successful applicant will be a plant biologist with expertise in ecology and/or conservation biology. The position carries a teaching load of 6 courses per year with both lecture and lab sections counting toward that total. In addition, they will provide oversight of the greenhouse and herbarium in collaboration with the laboratory manager. The individual’s annual teaching responsibilities may include involvement in the general biology sequence, non-majors Introductory Ecology, as well as upper division courses in ecological and botanical topics complementary to the candidate’s area of expertise. Geospatial skills are desirable. Opportunities may also exist to teach and/or mentor in the Environmental Studies interdisciplinary program.

We are looking for an individual who identifies first and foremost as an educator and is dedicated to using effective and inclusive teaching methods and practices. Our students come from various backgrounds with different values and beliefs. Many of them are first-generation college students, non-traditional students, students of color, and LGBTQ students. We particularly welcome applications from individuals who can facilitate discussions across diverse perspectives and who share our commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity in their teaching approaches.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Teach assigned courses at the undergraduate level, which includes upper division courses. 
• Hold regular student hours. 
• Attend regular department meetings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong background in biology.
• Knowledge of effective and inclusive teaching and learning strategies.
• Commitment to working effectively with a diverse faculty and student body.
• Demonstrated enthusiasm for teaching at the undergraduate level within a liberal arts setting.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Commitment to engaging undergraduates in research experiences as part of their scholarship.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in biology or related discipline with a preference in ecology and/or conservation biology. ABD will be considered, but Ph.D. must be in hand by September 1, 2025.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Knowledge of greenhouse and/or herbarium management, and geospatial skills.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Applicants should submit an application that includes the following:

• Cover letter
• CV
• Statement of teaching philosophy in which you describe your goals for student learning, the methods you use to help students achieve them, and how you assess student learning. This statement should explicitly address how you will create an inclusive learning environment that is attuned to diversity and equity.
• Statement of research interests.
• Names and contact information for three references

For more information, contact Matt Smith at smithmf@plu.edu.