Assistant/Associate Professor - Baton Rouge, United States - Louisiana State University

Description

The Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences (DOCS) within the College of the Coast and Environment at Louisiana State University (LSU) seeks candidates for an appointment at the rank of Assistant/Associate Professor with a strong research background in Microbial Ecology. Candidates using a diversity of quantitative techniques with empirically generated data are preferred, but research can include empirical, computational, model-based and/or molecular approaches. We particularly welcome applications from candidates with interests complementary to existing programmatic strengths in marine science, coastal wetland, and aquatic ecology that can take advantage of local ecosystems. Areas of research include but are not limited to ecology and evolution of microbiomes, host-microbe interactions, impacts of global change on microbial systems, and molecular and broader-based -omic interactions and analyses. This position is part of a major strategic hiring initiative in DOCS that will build on our expertise in Oceanography, Wetland Science, Fisheries, and Modeling.

Candidates should have a strong record of research accomplishments, experience in or potential for obtaining extramural funding, teaching experience, preferably in microbiology, and a commitment to excellence in education. The candidate will teach both graduate and undergraduate courses in microbial ecology, and in areas of their interest that help meet programmatic needs. As part of LSU's overall Scholarship First Agenda, the "Coast" including collaborative coastal research to solve problems has been identified as an area of research strength and expansion. We seek candidates who enjoy and will enhance the collaborative and interdisciplinary cultures established by the scientists and engineers at LSU and the faculty of DOCS and the Department of Environmental Sciences (DES) within the College of the Coast and Environment. The successful candidate will foster innovation and excellence across LSU and with local, national, and international partners and will be an active member of DOCS graduate program.

Diversity and Inclusion are core values of the College of the Coast and Environment, and we believe that the educational environment is enhanced when diverse groups of people with diverse ideas come together to learn. Applicants whose work incorporates a global perspective and a demonstrated commitment to diversity of thought in higher education are particularly encouraged to apply.

About the Department:

The Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences in the College of the Coast and Environment has strong biological, physical, chemical, geological, fisheries, and wetland & aquatic biogeochemistry pro‐grams in continental shelf, estuarine, and wetland environments. The growing undergraduate program, Coastal Environmental Sciences, is shared between both DOCS and DES in the College of the Coast and Environment and currently has over 200 students. Shared resources for the College include a fleet of vehicles and boats, and a Wetland Biogeochemistry Analytical Services laboratory equipped with an autoanalyzer, CHN, ICP, and mass- and gamma spectrometers with capabilities that include nutrient, carbon, isotope, and metal analyses in water, sediment, and plant samples. More information about the department can be found at

Job Responsibilities:

50% Teach graduate and undergraduate classes in Microbial Ecology.

30% Develop and maintain a rigorous, externally funded and independent research program in aquatic/marine microbiology with relevance to coastal and marine environments.

10% Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in research.

10% Provide service/advice to the University, and local, state and federal agencies.

Candidates who have experience working with students from diverse backgrounds and a demonstrated commitment to improving access to higher education for students from underrepresented groups are strongly urged to apply.

Minimum Qualifications:

Candidates must possess an earned doctorate in microbiology, microbial ecology, biology, bioinformatics, marine science, environmental science, or a closely related discipline at the time of application. Candidates should demonstrate skill in the understanding of cultural differences and be able to foster and create educational opportunities where all student populations thrive.

To be considered at the rank of Assistant Professor:

· Post-doctoral experience is strongly preferred.

· Candidates should have a strong publication record commensurate with their experience.

· Demonstrated potential for establishing programs of extramurally funded and independent research.

· Clear promise of excellent instructional capacity

To be considered at the rank of Associate Professor:

· Post-doctoral experience is strongly preferred.

· Candidates should have a strong publication record commensurate with their experience.

· Demonstrated potential for establishing programs of extramurally funded and independent research.

· Clear promise of excellent instructional capacity.

· Prior faculty appointment at the associate rank OR at least 6 years in a prior faculty appointment at the assistant rank OR at least 6 years in a professional research-based position with oversight as Principal Investigator of an independent research program.

Preferred Qualifications:

Ph.D

Competencies:

Proficient - demonstrate potential to sustain an active research program

Proficient - strong publication record, commensurate with experience

Proficient - ability to provide quality mentoring and teaching to undergraduate and graduate students.

Additional Job Description: Special Instructions:

"Please submit the following requested documents with your application: A cover letter highlighting your motivation for applying to this position (two page maximum). A research statement that describes the focus and impact of your current and planned future research (three page maximum). A statement of your teaching and student mentoring philosophies (three page maximum). A diversity, equity, and inclusion statement (two page maximum). Curriculum vitae. Contact information for three references. A copy of your transcript(s) may be attached to your application (if available). However, official transcripts are required prior to hire. If your degree was earned outside the US, a credential evaluation will be required.

This position will be open until filled; however, initial review of applications will start on April 15, 2024. "For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact "Dr. Tracy Quirk, , )".

Posting Date:

March 1, 2024

Closing Date (Open Until Filled)

Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and SAME Agency:

LSU is designated as a State As a Model Employer (SAME) agency and provides assistance to persons needing accommodations or with the accessibility of materials. For those seeking such accommodations or assistance related to this search, we encourage you to contact the Office of Human Resource Management ).

HCM Contact Information:

For questions or concerns related to updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at or email For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact the department using the information provided in the Special Instructions section of this job posting.