"Assistant Professor of Biology – Plant Biologist, School of Natural Sciences"

Job Details

EMPLOYMENT TERMS: Full-time, tenure track position

PRIMARY DUTY: Plant biologist with a background in plant diversity, taxonomy, and local flora to teach undergraduate coursework in introductory botany as well as advanced courses dealing with plant diversity. Additional teaching responsibilities may include introductory courses in biology for majors or non-majors, evolutionary biology, plant physiology, or plant anatomy. The ability to contribute to courses offered in the School of Agricultural Sciences related to horticulture is desirable but not mandatory.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Teach an introductory survey of botany for biology majors, including an associated laboratory component.
2. Teach an upper-level field course focusing upon Local Flora of the region.
3. Teach an introductory course in biology intended either for majors or non-majors.
4. Contribute to the biology discipline curriculum in other ways by offering courses in the candidate’s area of expertise. Possibilities may include, but are not limited to, coursework in evolution, plant physiology, and plant anatomy, or horticulture in the School of Agriculture.
5. Cover a typical annual teaching load of 12 load hours per term (fall and spring).
6. Develop scholarly activity that involves undergraduate and/or master’s students.
7. Manage the departmental greenhouse and herbarium.
8. Serve the School and University on committees as assigned.
9. Provide additional student support in the form of academic advisement, mentorship, or other student assistance as appropriate.
10. Hold seven office hours/week.
11. Perform other duties as assigned by the Chair.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education: Ph.D. in biology or related scientific discipline; ABD candidates will be considered

Skills: Good classroom management and lecture skills

WORKING CONDITIONS: Typical university classroom, office, laboratory, and field conditions

EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS USED: Common classroom teaching equipment, laboratory instrumentation, and equipment for field students

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to complete essential functions in the classroom, laboratory, and field; Ability to lift up to 20 pounds

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of candidates will begin as submitted and will be considered until the position is filled

DATE AVAILABLE: August 2026

TO APPLY: Follow the steps of the online application process. Please contact the Office of Human Resources at 660-562-1121 or email ewilmes@nwmissouri.edu if more information is needed regarding the process.

APPLICATION MATERIALS: You will need to submit: (1) a letter of application which describes your teaching experience and suitability for the position; (2) a statement of teaching philosophy; (3) a current curriculum vitae; (4) a statement of research interests, (5) unofficial transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work and (6) contact information for three professional references along with your online application in order for your application materials to be complete

INQUIRIES FOR THE POSITION CAN BE MADE TO:

Botanist Search Committee
School of Natural Sciences
Northwest Missouri State University
800 University Drive
Maryville, MO 64468-6001
Phone: (660) 562-1388 Email: natsci@nwmissouri.edu