Emory University, located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, stands as one of the world's leading private research universities. Founded in 1836, it has evolved into a powerhouse of academic excellence, particularly renowned for its contributions to health sciences, law, business, and liberal arts. For job seekers eyeing careers in higher education, jobs at Emory University represent opportunities to join a dynamic community committed to discovery, teaching, and service. The university employs thousands across its 15 schools and colleges, including Emory College of Arts and Sciences, the Laney Graduate School, Goizueta Business School, School of Law, and the top-ranked School of Medicine.
Atlanta's vibrant urban setting enhances Emory's appeal, providing access to cultural hubs, Fortune 500 companies, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) just minutes away. This proximity fosters collaborations in public health and biomedical research, making many positions interdisciplinary. Whether you're a PhD holder seeking faculty roles or a professional aiming for administration, understanding the landscape of jobs at Emory University is key to a successful application.
Emory University's roots trace back to 1836 when it was established by the Methodist Episcopal Church in Oxford, Georgia, as Emory College. Relocating to Atlanta in 1915, it expanded rapidly, gaining university status and affiliating with the CDC in 1948, which propelled its research prominence. Today, with an endowment exceeding $11 billion (as of 2023), Emory supports cutting-edge initiatives, creating stable, well-funded job opportunities.
The university's history of resilience—surviving the Civil War and integrating in 1962—shapes its inclusive culture. This legacy attracts professionals passionate about impactful work, from pioneering HIV/AIDS research in the 1980s to leading COVID-19 responses. Historical commitment to education ensures jobs at Emory University offer long-term growth, with many faculty achieving tenure and leadership roles.
Emory's diverse academic portfolio drives varied job openings. The School of Medicine, ranked #18 by U.S. News (2024), hires extensively in biomedical engineering, neuroscience, and oncology. The Rollins School of Public Health, a global leader, seeks experts in epidemiology and global health. Goizueta Business School focuses on finance and analytics, while the School of Law emphasizes constitutional and health law.
Emory College and Oxford College emphasize liberal arts, with needs in humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Research institutes like the Yerkes National Primate Research Center and Carter Center offer specialized roles. In Atlanta's tech and health hub, jobs often intersect with industry partners, providing real-world application.
Jobs at Emory University span faculty, research, administrative, and support roles. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, lecturers, and clinical instructors. Research jobs encompass postdocs, research associates, and lab managers. Administrative opportunities cover deans, directors, HR, and development. For more on types of positions available, explore common higher ed categories tailored to institutions like Emory.
Recent listings (2024) highlight openings in nursing, theology, and environmental sciences, reflecting Emory's strategic priorities. Staff roles in IT, facilities, and student affairs support the 15,000+ students.
To navigate jobs at Emory University, key terms include:
Most faculty jobs at Emory University require a PhD, MD, JD, or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant field. For example, assistant professor roles in biology demand a PhD with postdoctoral experience.
Research focus aligns with Emory's strengths: immunology, cancer biology, ethics, and data science. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (5+ for tenure-track), federal grants (e.g., NIH funding), and teaching mentorship.
Essential skills:
Competencies like leadership and communication are prized for admin roles. Learn more via how to write a winning academic CV.
Applications go through Emory's careers site or platforms like Interfolio. Prepare a tailored CV, cover letter highlighting Emory fit, research/teaching statements (2-3 pages each), and 3-5 references.
Atlanta location tip: Emphasize urban research interests. Use free resume templates for formatting.
Emory champions inclusion through the Office of Equity and Inclusion, launching the "Pathways to Inclusive Excellence" in 2015. The ADVANCE program supports women and underrepresented faculty with mentoring and funding. In 2023, 55% of new hires were from diverse backgrounds. Initiatives include bias training, affinity groups, and partnerships with HBCUs like Morehouse. The Emory Racial Justice Initiative funds equity research, fostering diverse teams.
Emory prioritizes well-being with flexible schedules, parental leave (up to 12 weeks), and mental health resources. The Atlanta campus features 26,000 acres of arboretum, gyms, childcare, and proximity to arts (High Museum) and sports (MLB, NBA). Faculty enjoy sabbaticals every 7 years, professional development funds ($3K/year), and tenure protections. Employee surveys (2023) rate satisfaction at 85%, aided by hybrid options post-COVID.
Cultural perks: Quarterly wellness days, Dooley's Week events, and Atlanta's food scene. For researchers, collaborative spaces and CDC access enhance productivity without burnout.
Jobs at Emory University offer unparalleled opportunities in a top-tier, Atlanta-based institution blending research innovation with teaching excellence. From faculty to support roles, competitive salaries (average professor $150K+) and benefits await qualified candidates. Explore more on higher ed jobs, get advice from higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. Stay informed on trends like those in employer branding secrets and postdoctoral success.
