Assistant Professor of Biophysical Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) invites applications for a full-time, tenure track faculty position in chemistry. Successful applicants must have a PhD in chemistry or a closely related field by the start date (August 1, 2025). 

Strong preference will be given to those with training in biophysical chemistry. The primary responsibilities will include teaching undergraduate courses in a year-long physical chemistry sequence with a lab, year-long biochemistry sequence with a lab, a one semester survey of biochemistry course, and an upper level capstone laboratory course for chemistry/biochemistry majors in addition to occasional contributions to our general education curriculum. The typical teaching load is three units per semester, with each lecture course counting as one unit. Description of these courses can be found here.

Applicants are expected to participate in experimental research, preferably engaging undergraduate students, provide academic advising to students, participate in department and university service and are encouraged to seek external funding.

Founded in 1850, IWU is a highly competitive small liberal arts institution located in Bloomington, IL. IWU is strongly committed to recruiting, supporting and fostering a diverse, inclusive and civil community of outstanding faculty, staff and students. We seek candidates who have a demonstrated commitment to supporting and further building our community in these dimensions. IWU is an EEO Employer. 

The position includes a competitive salary, benefits, start-up funds, laboratory space for research and a one semester junior faculty leave to support scholarship in preparation for tenure. The provost’s office provides generous travel funds to attend both research and pedagogical conferences. The department prides itself on close student-faculty interactions and the research opportunities provided to students. More information about the department can be found here. 

The twin cities of Bloomington-Normal, just 2 hours southwest of Chicago, provide a vibrant and diverse community and offer a great quality of life.  https://www.visitbn.org/about/major-employers/

Interested applicants should send a complete application, preferably as a single pdf document to chembiochemsearch@iwu.edu (Subject line: IWU Faculty Position in Chemistry). A complete application packet will be comprised of:

1) a “Cover Letter” (up to 2 pages) that addresses your experience relevant to teaching at an undergraduate liberal arts institution, involving undergraduates in your research, and integrating teaching, writing and critical thinking skills in courses.

2) “Curriculum Vitae” (up to 2 pages).

3) Unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts.

4) “Research Plans” that addresses the type of work you will do, how you will incorporate undergraduate students into your research program, and lists equipment and instrument needs (up to 4 pages).

5) “Teaching Philosophy” (up to 2 pages) that includes a clear statement on how research, teaching, and/or service has provided preparation for contributing to our commitment to teaching undergraduates. 

(6) “Diversity statement” (1 page) on how you would promote diversity and inclusivity in the classroom and your preparation for contributing to our commitment to address issues of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and/or other issues of history marginalization.  

(7) Applicants should arrange for three letters of reference to be sent directly by the referees to chembiochemsearch@iwu.edu 

By providing three letters of reference, you agree that we may contact your letter writers.

Review of complete applications (items 1-6) will begin on September 1, 2024 and will continue until the positions has been filled.