Job Description Summary

The Department of Natural Sciences at Shawnee State University invites applicants for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Biology position, beginning Fall 2025. The successful candidate will be expected to regularly teach botanical courses including plant taxonomy, plant anatomy and physiology, practical horticulture, dendrology; additional courses may include introductory biology courses, scientific reasoning and methodology, or field methods. The successful candidate will also manage a 1300 sq. ft. greenhouse and work with facilities/maintenance staff regarding plant care on campus; maintain Shawnee State's Tree Campus USA status; advise undergraduate students; serve on department, college or university wide committees and engage in professional development/scholarship activities. Preference will be given to those candidates with prior teaching experience, and the potential for developing a research program involving undergraduate students.   Shawnee State University is the regional state university for South-Central Ohio. It is a primarily undergraduate, four-year public university with limited graduate degree programs. Enrollment is approximately 3,200 students. Shawnee State is located on the Ohio River in Portsmouth, Ohio -- a small city nestled in a beautiful, forested area. Adjacent to Portsmouth is Shawnee State Forest, the largest of Ohio's state forests at more than 65,000 acres in size. This unique and diverse ecosystem offers faculty the opportunity to teach in the field and provides outdoor enthusiasts with recreational activities close to work.   The search committee will review applications until the position is filled.  Only online applications will be accepted. Complete your application by clicking the Apply for this Job link above and include:

• a cover letter addressed to Dr. Michael Barnhart, Interim Dean, College of Arts & Sciences, specifically addressing how your qualifications meet the posted minimum requirements of the position;
• a CV;
• academic transcripts from all higher education institutions attended (official transcripts will be requested prior to hiring);
• a 1 to 2-page statement of teaching philosophy;
• a 1 to 2-page statement of research experience and interests;
• in the professional references section of your application, enter a minimum of three references who can confirm your experience and abilities to perform the responsibilities of this position. The references you provide will receive an email containing a unique link that allows them to upload your reference letter confidentially. Reference letters should be addressed to Dr. Michael Barnhart, Interim Dean, College of Arts & Sciences;

Candidates invited for an on-campus interview will be required to present a teaching demonstration of their instructional abilities. Specific questions regarding this position may be directed to Professor Jennifer Napper at jnapper@shawnee.edu. Shawnee State offers a competitive salary (commensurate with experience and qualifications) including an attractive benefits package (see Overview of Employee Benefits{tabindex="0" rel="nofollow" target="blank"}* for more information).* Employment with the University is dependent upon BOT budget approval for the fiscal year. Official transcripts and background check are required prior to hire. We are committed to maintaining an inclusive learning environment in which students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all other aspects of campus life reflect a diverse, multi-cultural, and international worldview. The University community recognizes and values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. We are committed t