Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences

Location:
University of Oklahoma, Norman Campus
Open Date:
Sep 20, 2024
Description:
The School of Biological Sciences (SBS) at the University of Oklahoma (OU) and Laboratories of Molecular Anthropology and Microbiome Research (LMAMR) invite applications for a 9-month tenure-track appointment with a starting Fall 2025.

 

We seek an innovative, creative and collaborative computational biologist who will establish a discipline-leading, student-involved, cross-disciplinary and externally funded research program; build collaborations within and outside the University; and work with colleagues and students toward OU’s Lead On Strategic Plan.

 

We invite individuals with innovative, and dynamic research programs who would like to be part of a collaborative group of researchers to apply for this faculty position. We are seeking a scholar whose home department would be School of Biological Sciences but would also be affiliated with the Laboratories of Molecular Anthropology and Microbiome Research (LMAMR) at the University of Oklahoma. LMAMR represents an interdisciplinary partnership that seeks to understand biocultural, ecological and evolutionary dimensions of life. We study biomolecules retrieved from extant, forensic, historical, archaeological, and environmental materials, with special attention to humans and human-associated organisms including commensals and pathogens. LMAMR is also home to a world-class ancient DNA laboratory.

 

The ideal candidate will specialize in Computational Biology with a focus in Metagenomics or Machine Learning with genomic data. This position will contribute substantially to the ongoing research in Metagenomics and Paleogenomics at the University of Oklahoma, particularly in the context of one or more of the four SBS research themes “Ecology of Changing Planet”, “Biological Foundations of One Health”, “Mechanisms of Biodiversity”, or “Behaviors: From Molecules to Ecosystems”. We are especially interested in scholars who are innovating tools, methods and algorithms for the analysis of genomic data. 

 

The successful candidate will be expected to provide training for graduate students and postdocs and mentor undergraduates in research and will contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching (one course per semester) in areas such as in Metagenomics, Bioinformatics, Machine Learning for Biologists, and/or in their specific area of expertise. For additional details, please visit https://www.ou.edu/cas/sbs and https://lmamr.org/

 

The University of Oklahoma invests in its faculty by providing support and resources through the Center for Faculty Excellence and Vice President for Research and Partnerships Office. The Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences supports faculty development through mentoring, new faculty orientation series, and access to research and educational supports. We encourage candidates to apply who are seeking to work in a collaborative multi-PI lab setting and a rapidly growing college with collegial interdisciplinary groups and strong academic units.

 

University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma (OU) is a Carnegie-R1 comprehensive public research university known for excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement, serving the educational, cultural, economic, and healthcare needs of the state, region, and nation from three campuses: Norman, Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City and the Schusterman Center in Tulsa. OU enrolls over 32,000 students and has more than 2,700 full-time faculty members in 21 colleges.

The Norman Community

Norman is a vibrant university town of more than 130,000 inhabitants with a growing entertainment and art scene. With outstanding schools, amenities, and a low cost of living, Norman is a perennial contender in “best place to live” rankings. Visit http://soonerway.ou.edu for more information. Within an easy commute, Oklahoma City features a dynamic economy and outstanding cultural venues adding to the region’s growing appeal.

 

Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:

·      Ph.D. in Biology, Bioinformatics or other related field in hand by start date.

·      Established record of high-quality research and publications.

·      Demonstrated record of, or clear potential for, strong extramural funding.

·      Familiarity with effective teaching practices and mentoring approaches that support students from a wide range of backgrounds.

·      Commitment to teaching undergraduate and graduate courses that engage students in computational biology.

Preferred Qualifications:

·      Experience leading collaborative projects and working with interdisciplinary teams.

·      Demonstrated teaching record.

·      Postdoctoral research experience

·      Potential for collaborations with others within LMAMR and School of Biological Sciences.

Application Instructions:

Applicants should submit 1) a cover letter describing their interest in the position, their fit with the LMAMR and one or more of the School of Biological Sciences research themes; 2) a full curriculum vitae; 3) a research portfolio consisting of up to a three page narrative and up to three representative publications;  4) teaching portfolio with up to a two page narrative and optional syllabus for a course you are interested in teaching; 5) contact information for three individuals who will be asked to provide confidential recommendations. Applications must be submitted online via Interfolio at: http://apply.interfolio.com/154459.

Screening of candidates will begin October 16 and will continue until the position is filled.

 

Inquiries should be directed to the search committee co-chairs:

Co-Chair: Dr. Courtney Hofman, Associate Professor

University of Oklahoma

Courtney.hofman@ou.edu

 

Co-Chair: Dr. Hayley Lanier, Associate Curator/Associate Professor

University of Oklahoma

hclanier@ou.edu

 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to:  admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, or health care services that the University operates or provides.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. 

Mission of the University of Oklahoma

The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.