The Department of Biological Sciences at Butler University invites applications for two tenure-track Assistant Professor positions, one in cellular/molecular biology and another in plant biology, starting in August 2026.
- Candidates for the cellular/molecular biology position are expected to teach introductory majors’ courses in cell and molecular biology, upper-level electives within the applicant’s specialty, as well as occasional senior Capstone and Core Curriculum courses. The ability to teach biostatistics would be ideal. We are searching for an individual to complement the research areas of the current faculty; examples of preferred research areas include but are not limited to invertebrate biology, parasitology, protozoan biology, or cell biology. Questions about this position may be directed to Dr. Andrew Stoehr (astoehr@butler.edu).
- Candidates for the plant biology position are expected to teach introductory majors’ courses in cell and molecular biology and genetics, as well as upper-level electives in plant physiology, plant biochemistry, or plant genomics as well as occasional senior Capstone and Core Curriculum courses. The ability to teach biostatistics would be ideal. We are searching for an individual to complement the research areas of the current faculty, ideally with expertise in physiology, biochemistry, or metabolomics; experience in bioinformatics is an asset as well. Questions about this position may be directed to Dr. Philip Villani (pvillani@butler.edu).
For both positions, the typical teaching load is 9 credit hours (two laboratory courses) per semester, which is approximately 12 contact hours per semester. Applicants should have a Ph.D., teaching experience, and a strong commitment to undergraduate education and to building an inclusive learning environment for an increasingly diverse student population. Successful candidates will be expected to sustain a research program involving undergraduates. Butler has an established undergraduate research program supported by institutional funds, including internal research funds and equipment funds, the Butler Summer Institute to support summer student research, and the annual Undergraduate Research Conference. There are also funds available to support faculty and student travel to conferences. Start-up funds are available for each position.
To apply, applicants should submit the following:
- a cover letter discussing qualifications for and interest in the position.
- a CV
- a statement of teaching interests which highlights strategies for inclusive and evidence-based pedagogies
- a statement of research interests with plans for a program of research involving
undergraduate students.
- transcripts of graduate work or other evidence of terminal degree(s) (unofficial is acceptable for candidate review)
- a list of 3 professional references, including name, title, and contact information
The cover letter and CV can be uploaded individually. All other materials should be submitted as a single PDF. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide three letters of recommendation. Finalists will be required to submit official transcripts and to undergo a background check
Evaluation of applications will begin immediately upon receipt, and preference will be given to those received by October 3, 2025. Butler University is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of age, gender, gender identity, sex, race, religion, color, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, national origin, or any other legally protected category.
Why the Butler University Department of Biological Sciences?
The Department of Biological Sciences at Butler University (https://www.butler.edu/arts-sciences/biology/biology-major/) is a collaborative department made up of approximately 20 full, associate and assistant professors, lecturers and staff with a variety of interests and backgrounds. The department is housed in a fully modern building that was recently renovated from top to bottom. Resources include but are not limited to a state-of-the-art microscopy suite with a spinning disk confocal microscope and research grade fluorescent microscopes, quantitative PCR equipment, a brand-new vivarium, growth chambers, a greenhouse, a newly renovated herbarium, computing resources, and fully mediated classrooms for teaching.
Founded by abolitionist Ovid Butler in 1855 on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, Butler University is a private, nationally recognized comprehensive university consisting of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the College of Education, the Lacy School of Business, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Jordan College of the Arts, and College of Communication. Butler’s mission is to boldly innovate and broadly educate, enriching communities and preparing all learners to lead meaningful lives. The university is founded on ideals of equity and academic excellence and fosters a collaborative, stimulating intellectual learning environment. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and doctoral students are enrolled at Butler, representing 46 states and 24 countries. Ranked #1 by U.S. News and World Report and recognized for “best undergraduate teaching” and “most innovative schools,” Butler is located within Indianapolis, just five miles from downtown Indianapolis, a cultural center of both the state and the country (https://www.visitindy.com).
