Working at Lehigh, your next career step!

Overview of Lehigh University

Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is a private research university founded in 1865 by industrialist Asa Packer. Nestled in the Lehigh Valley, it spans four campuses and enrolls over 7,000 students. Known for its strengths in engineering, business, and sciences, Lehigh offers a collaborative environment for academic professionals. Jobs at Lehigh University span faculty, research, and administrative roles, making it a prime destination for careers in higher education.

The university's commitment to innovation is evident in its research expenditures exceeding $60 million annually, funding positions in cutting-edge fields. Bethlehem's location provides access to Philadelphia and New York City, enhancing networking opportunities for those pursuing jobs at Lehigh University.

History of Lehigh University

Established as a technical institution, Lehigh University evolved from a focus on engineering to a comprehensive university with colleges of arts and sciences, business, education, engineering, and health. Key milestones include the founding of the College of Business in 1914 and expansion into interdisciplinary research centers. Today, it ranks among top national universities, with alumni like Lee Iacocca contributing to its legacy. This history shapes jobs at Lehigh University, emphasizing practical, industry-aligned roles.

Academic Programs and Departments

Lehigh's P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Lehigh University College of Business are renowned, alongside programs in biology, chemistry, and computer science. Departments seek experts in artificial intelligence, sustainable energy, and global studies. Jobs at Lehigh University often align with these programs, such as professor positions in mechanical engineering or lecturer roles in finance.

The university supports over 100 undergraduate majors and 70 graduate programs, creating demand for diverse faculty and staff. Explore university job types for details on available positions.

Types of Jobs at Lehigh University

Common openings include tenure-track professors, adjunct instructors, research associates, postdoctoral fellows, and administrative positions like department chairs or HR specialists. Engineering and business departments frequently post faculty jobs, while research labs hire assistants. For specialized roles, check higher ed faculty jobs or research assistant jobs.

• Faculty: Teaching and research-focused.
• Postdocs: Short-term research positions post-PhD.
• Staff: Support roles in administration and labs.

Definitions

Tenure-track position: A faculty role leading to permanent employment after review, typically 5-7 years, based on research, teaching, and service.

Postdoctoral researcher (postdoc): Temporary position for recent PhD graduates to gain advanced research experience, often 1-3 years.

Adjunct professor: Part-time instructor without tenure, teaching courses on contract basis.

Research assistant: Entry-level role supporting faculty projects, ideal for master's students or early-career researchers.

Required Academic Qualifications

For faculty jobs at Lehigh University, a PhD in the relevant field is standard. Assistant professors need doctoral degrees with dissertation expertise matching department needs. Senior roles require PhD plus proven record. Administrative positions may need master's or bachelor's with experience. Learn more via how to write a winning academic CV.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed

Lehigh prioritizes engineering innovation, business analytics, and health sciences. Expertise in AI, renewable energy, materials science, or entrepreneurship is sought. Interdisciplinary work, like computational biology, is encouraged. Funded centers like the Institute for Data, Intelligent Systems, and Computing drive postdoc and research jobs.

Preferred Experience

Candidates with 3+ peer-reviewed publications, grant experience (e.g., NSF funding), and teaching portfolios stand out. Industry collaboration or postdoctoral stints are advantages. For lecturer jobs, classroom experience is key; see become a university lecturer.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include strong communication, grant writing, mentoring, and data analysis. Technical proficiency in tools like MATLAB or Python for STEM roles. Soft skills: Collaboration, adaptability, and commitment to equity. Lehigh values innovative thinkers for higher ed jobs.

Application Process and Tips

Apply through Lehigh's careers site, submitting CV, cover letter, research/teaching statements, and references. Tips: Customize for the department, quantify achievements (e.g., 'Secured $500K grant'), network at conferences. Deadlines vary; track via higher ed jobs. Prepare for campus visits with job talks. Reference postdoctoral success for postdoc tips.

• Review job description thoroughly.
• Highlight Lehigh alignment.
• Follow up professionally.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Lehigh's Office of Equity and Community Inclusion runs programs like ADVANCE for women in STEM and the Multicultural Scholars Program. Recruitment targets underrepresented minorities; affinity groups support faculty. In 2023, 25% faculty hires were diverse, per reports. These efforts foster inclusive jobs at Lehigh University.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

Lehigh promotes balance with flexible schedules, parental leave, and wellness programs. Campus features Mt. Trexler Nature Preserve trails, fitness centers, and arts events. Bethlehem's community offers family-friendly amenities, dining, and holidays like Musikfest. Employees enjoy tuition benefits for dependents, enhancing long-term satisfaction in academic roles.

In summary, jobs at Lehigh University offer rewarding careers in a dynamic setting. Explore openings on higher ed jobs, career advice at higher ed career advice, or university jobs. Institutions can post a job to attract talent.