Assistant professor of biology

Union College invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor of Environmental Biology and Public Health beginning September 1, 2026. Review of applications will begin after December 31, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by December 31, 2025 will receive priority consideration.

We are seeking a candidate whose research area explores the interaction between biological systems and the environment as it relates to epidemiology and/or public health. Potential subjects of study include, but are not limited to: host-vector biology, microbiomes, evolution and transmission of infectious agents, genetic epidemiology, and environmental influences on pathogenesis. Candidates using combinations of field-based, wet-lab, genomics, and/or computational approaches are highly preferred. All candidates must have a Ph.D. degree in a biology or in a related field and preference will be given to those with at least one year of postdoctoral experience in research or teaching. Successful candidates will demonstrate potential to develop an independent research program, as evidenced by scholarship and productivity during graduate and postdoctoral activities, and will exhibit an interest in undergraduate teaching.

Successful applicants will be committed to excellence in teaching, research, mentoring undergraduates, and to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The successful candidate will establish an active research program that incorporates undergraduates and contribute to the Department of Biology’s curriculum ( including our first/second year biology sequence and an upper-level course in their specialty. There is an opportunity to contribute to the College’s programs in Environmental Science and Environmental Engineering.

About The Department Of Biological Sciences

The Department of Biological Sciences at Union College is committed to teaching and mentoring students in the classroom and in our active research laboratories. We contribute to numerous interdisciplinary programs including Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Environmental Science and Policy, Environmental Engineering, and Nanoscience ( Housed in the newly-constructed Integrated Science and Engineering Complex, the Department is well equipped with NSF-funded instrumentation such as a microCT, a confocal microscope, a 3-D multi camera motion analysis system, Illumina DNA sequencer, scanning electron microscope, greenhouse space, growth chambers, and substantial microscopy, tissue culture and animal care facilities. We also have access to a continuous flow isotope mass spectrometer, elemental analyzer, and an ICPMS in Union College’s Stable Isotope and Geochemistry Laboratory. The College is situated in close proximity to a variety of terrestrial and aquatic habitats including the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains, the Mohawk River as well as numerous lakes, urban and suburban areas that are amenable to field study.

We provide exceptional academic experiences and training for undergraduates seeking to understand what creates, sustains, and changes ourselves, other organisms, communities, and the environment. We share Union College’s commitment to lead with wisdom, empathy, and courage.

Application instructions:

Please submit all application materials as pdf files. Only the materials listed below will be considered.

• Cover letter
• CV
• Statement of teaching philosophy and experience, which includes approaches to educating students from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds
• Statement of research interests which includes your approach to mentoring undergraduates
  
  

Please send questions and other inquiries to search chair Nicole Theodosiou at [email protected]. Applicants invited to the first round of interviews will receive a request for the contact information for three professional references who can speak to their abilities in teaching, scholarship, and being a supportive community member.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is $81,500-$83,500. Except for roles with a set rate of pay, the wage/salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The stated hiring rate/range represents the College’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the rate/range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Location: Schenectady, NY

We offer exceptional benefits including:

• Healthcare, Dental, and Vision Insurance (Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Accounts)
• Free On-Campus Fitness Facility Access and Discounts for On-Campus Wellness Programs
• Employee Scholarships toward Certifications, Seminars, Training and Professional Development
• Pre and Post Tax participation in a 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Salary Continuation Program in the event of Disability
• Tuition Assistance Program for Employee, Spouse and/or Dependents
  
  

Background Checks: In accordance with our background check policy, finalists for hire will undergo a background check that includes education, employment, and criminal convictions.

E-Verify Participation: Union College participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify and your Right to Work (Derecho a Trabajar).