Assistant Professor-FixedTerm - Michigan Staffing : Job Details

The Department of Integrative Biology at Michigan State University invites applications from ornithologists for a full-time, 9-month, fixed-term assistant professor position with a 50% research and 50% teaching assignment. The position start date is anticipated to be August 16, 2025. The initial appointment is for two years, with the expectation of extension contingent upon satisfactory performance and continued funding.

The selected candidate will play a key role in delivering upper-level courses in genetics and ornithology, alongside a dedicated team of faculty and graduate teaching assistants, and establishing an independent or collaborative research program with other faculty members in areas related to ornithology, genetics, molecular and cellular biology, neuroscience, and/or sensory physiology. There will be a preference for candidates who will bring in molecular-genetic expertise to bolster the research tools in the Department of Integrative Biology. The successful candidate will have access to independent lab space, and the department is home to a variety of ornithology and molecular biology labs with state-of-the-art equipment. Furthermore, there will be potential for the candidate to conduct field studies at the Kellogg Biological Station, the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, Corey Marsh, and other sites.

Core Courses Overview:

• IBIO 341: Fundamental Genetics: Covers prokaryotic and eukaryotic genetics, genome biology, population and evolutionary genetics, and modern biotechnologies and genomics applications.
• IBIO 360: Biology of Birds: Behavior, ecology, evolution, and systematics of birds; biodiversity. Laboratories emphasize diversity of form and function, life history patterns, and identification.

The new faculty will strengthen the core mission of the MSU IBIO Department to advance understanding of the function, stability, resilience, and adaptation of complex biological systems via research, teaching, and service. We use cutting-edge tools to address important questions about genetics, genomics, development, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution in a wide array of species and model systems, over temporal and spatial scales. The department includes more than 30 faculty members and strong graduate and undergraduate programs. Many faculty members are also affiliated with the MSU Ecology, Evolution and Behavior Program, the MSU BioMolecular Science Program, and numerous other cross-college units and interdisciplinary graduate programs.

MSU IBIO is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that enriches our learning environment and innovative research and seek colleagues driven by the same motivation.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree: Doctorate - Biology or related field

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. in biology or a related field by start date.
• Graduate or post-doctoral research experience in ornithology with a specialization in genetics, molecular biology, neuroscience, physiology, evolutionary biology, or a similar sub-discipline.
• Evidence of a plan for future research.
• Experience teaching and/or mentoring undergraduates.
• Dedication to professional development.
• Commitment to fostering student success and inclusivity in a diverse learning environment.