"Assistant Professor in Microbiology"

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Penn State, University Park campus, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor.

The search is open to any area of Microbiology. Areas of particular interest for this year's search include bacteriology, virology, parasitology, and mycology.

Applicants should have a Ph.D., a record of creative research accomplishments, a research plan clearly articulating future contributions to the field, and a strong desire to achieve teaching excellence at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The position features outstanding research space and a competitive start-up package.

The anticipated starting date for this appointment is summer or fall of 2026 or spring of 2027. The duties include research, teaching, supervision of student research at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and service to the university and the greater professional community. Candidates are expected to demonstrate interest in and capacity for developing a strong, independent research program, and teaching and mentorship excellence at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Applications submitted electronically by October 15, 2025 will receive full consideration, and should include the following:

• A one page cover letter that highlights the applicant's most relevant qualifications for a faculty position at Penn State, including an overview of the goals/vision of your research program in the context of our department and institution, and a summary of experiences and qualifications that position you to achieve your goals.
• Curriculum vitae including a list of publications.
• Two statements addressing: Research accomplishments, future plans, and vision (up to 3 pages, including figures and references), and Teaching experience, philosophy, and/or interests (1 page).

Application materials may comprise no more than 5 documents, each with a size limit of 5MB. Applicants may need to combine materials to meet the 5-document limit and should ensure all documents are uploaded and correct prior to final submission.

In addition to the above materials, applicants should arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent directly to micro_search@psu.edu by the same deadline.

Successful applicants will join an outstanding department with a highly collaborative environment and have access to cutting edge research infrastructure including genomic, microscopy, metabolomic, animal, and biosafety level 3 facilities. They will further have the opportunity to be part of numerous centers of research excellence within the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences (https://www.huck.psu.edu/institutes-and-centers).

Questions about the position and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Penn State may be directed at the Chair of the Faculty Search Committee, Prof. Timothy Meredith by e-mail at micro_search@psu.edu.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.