(1) Developmental Cell Biology (2) Plant Biology
The Department of Biology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites applications for two tenure-track Assistant Professor positions to start as soon as September 1, 2025. One position is in the area of Developmental Cell Biology and the other is in any area of Plant Biology. The successful candidate will be expected to establish a vibrant, externally funded research program, effectively teach and mentor undergraduate and graduate students, and contribute to service in support of the department and college. Of particular importance, the successful candidate will have a demonstrated understanding of the strength that is brought to science through diversity, equity, inclusivity, and accessibility. With recent and ongoing hiring in Biology, the successful candidates will join a new junior faculty cohort in neurobiology, genetics, plant, and developmental cellular biology. Faculty members train graduate students through interdepartmental graduate programs in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Neuroscience and Behavior, Plant Biology, and Organismic and Evolutionary Biology.
Evaluation of applications for both positions will begin on October 15, 2024, and continue until the positions are filled.
1) Developmental Cell Biology (Search R#524681): We seek to hire a faculty member whose research program focuses on examining the cellular mechanisms of development, such as cell signaling, differentiation, proliferation, motility/migration, cell death, and/or cellular mechanisms driving developmental evolution (Cellular Evo/Devo). The research organism used is open and could include animal, plant, or fungal species, as well as emerging model systems. The successful candidate would be joining a department with strengths in cytoskeletal and nuclear cell biology, developmental biology of plants and fishes, and organismal evolutionary biology. Questions pertaining to this position can be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Lillian Fritz-Laylin at DevCellSearch@groups.umass.edu.
2) Plant Biology (Search R#524682): Although the search is unrestricted with respect to the research area or organism (algae to angiosperms), we are keen to hire a biologist who investigates molecular mechanisms. The successful candidate will show potential to synergize with other members of the department: biologists who study physiology, cell biology, evolution, and development. Modern research approaches including genomics, advanced imaging, or computational methods are welcome. The successful candidate will also contribute to the department’s mission through teaching lecture or laboratory courses in their area of specialty. The Biology department provides an interactive and broad research environment, with faculty whose research spans all levels of biological organization. Questions pertaining to this position can be directed to the search committee chair, Dr. Tobias Baskin at PlantBiolSearch@groups.umass.edu.
A Ph.D. in Biology or a related field and postdoctoral experience are required. We are seeking talented applicants qualified for an assistant professor position. Under exceptional circumstances, highly qualified candidates at other ranks may receive consideration.
Applicants should include a (1) cover letter, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) Research Statement, (4) Teaching Statement, (5) Contributions to Inclusive Excellence Statement (see below), and (6) contact information for three [3] professional references.
At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to diversity and will be an individual who understands and embraces university initiatives and aspirations directed toward all members of campus. You can find these values and goals here. For this reason, your statement should address how you see yourself contributing to our community and/or our shared goals of building a more inclusive, equitable, and diverse community. This should identify past accomplishments and future goals; these include contributions from experiences, scholarships, mentoring, teaching, and outreach activities.
The University is committed to active recruitment of a diverse faculty and student body. The University of Massachusetts Amherst is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities and encourages applications from these and other protected group members. Because broad diversity is essential to an inclusive climate and critical to the University’s goals of achieving excellence in all areas, we will holistically assess the many qualifications of each applicant and favorably consider an individual’s record working with students and colleagues with broadly diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds in educational, research or other work activities. We will also favorably consider experience overcoming or helping others overcome barriers to an academic career and degree.
